Content Writing Invoice Format
A GST-ready invoice format for a freelance content writer / copywriter in India — with the correct SAC code, the right GST rate, and the line items you actually bill. Fill it in and download a PDF, free and no sign-up.
A content writer's invoice should clearly list each deliverable (articles, web pages, blogs) with per-word or per-piece rates, plus your SAC code and GST breakup if you are registered. There is no SAC named "content writing," so most freelance writers bill under SAC 998399 (Other professional, technical and business services n.e.c.) at 18% GST — copywriting tied to ad campaigns can alternatively sit under 998361 (Advertising services). If you earn under Rs 20 lakh a year (Rs 10 lakh in special-category states) you are below the GST threshold and can invoice without charging GST, but you still need a clean, numbered invoice for the client's records and your ITR.
What a freelance content writer / copywriter typically bills for
| Item / service | Billed | Typical rate |
|---|---|---|
| SEO blog article (900-1200 words, researched, 1 revision) | per article | ₹1,500 |
| Website / landing page copy | per page | ₹2,500 |
| Long-form content writing (per word) | per word | ₹2 |
| Social media captions pack (Instagram / LinkedIn) | per 10 posts | ₹3,500 |
| Monthly content retainer (8 blogs + editing) | per month | ₹20,000 |
| Editing & proofreading of existing copy | per 1000 words | ₹500 |
Indicative market rates — set your own. Add these as line items and the invoice totals GST for you.
Opens the free GST invoice generator, pre-filled with these items.
How to make a content writing invoice
Your name / business, GSTIN if registered, and the client's details.
List what you delivered — use the items above as a starting point — under SAC 998399.
Pick 18% GST, choose CGST+SGST or IGST, and download the PDF.
What a GST-compliant content writing invoice must include
A GST tax invoice should carry: your name, address and GSTIN; a unique invoice number and date; the client's name, address and GSTIN (if registered); a description of the service with its SAC code (998399 for content writing); the taxable value; the GST rate and amount split as CGST + SGST (same state) or IGST (inter-state); the total in words; and your signature. Freelance writers commonly take 30-50% advance before starting and the balance on delivery; retainer clients are usually billed monthly with Net 15-30 day terms.
Invoice format by profession
Content Writing invoice — frequently asked questions
Which SAC code should a freelance content writer put on a GST invoice?
There is no SAC literally called "content writing." Most writers use SAC 998399 — "Other professional, technical and business services n.e.c." — at 18% GST. If your work is copywriting for advertising campaigns, 998361 (Advertising services) also applies. When unsure, confirm the code with your CA, as a wrong SAC can affect your client's input tax credit.
Do I need GST to invoice as a content writer in India?
Only if your annual turnover crosses Rs 20 lakh (Rs 10 lakh in special-category states) or you supply services to clients in other states through certain platforms. Below that you can raise a plain invoice with no GST — just number it, date it, and mention that GST is not applicable as you are below the registration threshold.
How do I handle the advance payment on my invoice?
If you are GST-registered and collect an advance for services, GST is payable on the advance at the time you receive it, so raise a receipt voucher. On the final invoice, show the full value, the GST, then deduct the advance already received to arrive at the balance due.
Should I bill international clients GST?
Writing for a client outside India is typically an export of service (zero-rated). You do not charge 18% GST if it qualifies, but you must be GST-registered and either file a LUT to export without tax or claim a refund. Mention it is an export of service on the invoice and collect payment in convertible foreign exchange.