Free Genealogist Invoice Template

What is a Genealogist Genealogist invoice?

A genealogist invoice records fees for researching and documenting family histories. UK genealogists work for private individuals wanting to trace their ancestry, legal professionals handling estate matters, immigration applicants requiring proof of heritage, and DNA testing companies wanting human interpretation of results. Professional genealogists typically charge by the hour or as a project fee for a defined research scope. The Association of Professional Genealogists (APG) and the Register of Qualified Genealogists (RQG) promote professional standards. The Society of Genealogists provides resources and professional development. Genealogical research involves searching records at the General Register Office (GRO), The National Archives, county record offices, parish registers, and online databases (Ancestry, FindMyPast). Travel to archives and access fees are charged as disbursements.

What to include on a Genealogist Genealogist invoice

• Your name, APG or RQG registration (if applicable), and contact details
• Client name and matter reference
• Research scope agreed and starting information
• Hours worked or project fee
• Research methodology and sources checked
• Disbursements: archive access fees, GRO certificate fees, postage
• DNA analysis interpretation fee (if applicable)
• Research report preparation fee
• Retainer used (if client paid in advance)
• Payment terms

Common genealogist invoice line items

How to invoice as a Genealogist genealogist

Genealogists typically require a prepaid retainer (covering 5–10 hours of research) before commencing work. Issue periodic progress invoices against the retainer, with a final balance invoice at project conclusion. Include a research report or progress update with each invoice — clients value transparency about what has been found and what remains to be investigated. For legal genealogy reports (estate matters), invoice to the solicitor handling the estate rather than the beneficiaries. Disbursements (GRO certificates, archive fees, DNA testing kits) should be invoiced at cost, with receipts available on request.