Writing Invoice Template

Free Ghostwriter Invoice Template

Create professional ghostwriter invoices in minutes. Track word counts, project fees, and rights terms and get paid on time.

Create Free Invoice View Pricing

What is a Ghostwriter invoice?

A ghostwriter invoice is a billing document for written content, copywriting, or editorial services. It outlines the word count, project scope, research time, revision rounds, and total fees. A professional invoice helps writers get paid reliably and maintain accurate records of their work.

What to include on a Ghostwriter invoice

Common ghostwriter invoice line items

Service Typical Rate Unit
Ghostwriter Services $0.10 - $1.00 per word
Content Writing $50 - $150 per hour
Research and Interviews $50 - $100 per hour
Proofreading and Editing $30 - $75 per hour
Rush Delivery 25 - 50% surcharge
Rights Buyout $100 - $500 flat fee

How to invoice as a ghostwriter

Agree on scope, word count, and pricing before starting any project. For longer pieces, request a deposit upfront. Invoice by word count for content work, or by the hour for research-heavy or editorial assignments. Include a clear statement of the rights you are transferring (first rights, all rights, work for hire) so there is no confusion later. Send the invoice as soon as you submit the final draft. For regular clients, set up monthly recurring invoices to streamline billing. Follow up on late payments within 48 hours of the due date.

Create your ghostwriter invoice in minutes

Start free. No credit card required.

Get started free

Frequently asked questions

Should I charge per word or per hour as a ghostwriter?
Per-word rates work well for articles, blog posts, and web copy where scope is defined upfront. Hourly rates suit research-heavy, editorial, or ghostwriting projects where the scope is harder to predict. Many writers use a flat project fee that blends both approaches.
What rights should I include on my invoice?
State explicitly what rights you are granting: first publication rights, exclusive rights, all rights, or work for hire. Work-for-hire and full rights transfers command higher rates than first-use licenses. If you retain rights, you can resell the piece elsewhere.
How do I handle revision rounds in my invoice?
Define the number of revision rounds included in your flat fee (one or two rounds is standard). Charge an additional hourly or flat fee for revisions beyond the included allowance. List extra revisions as a separate line item on the invoice.
When should I send my invoice?
Send the invoice when you submit the final draft. For long-form or multi-part projects, invoice at milestones (for example, on delivery of each chapter or section). Prompt invoicing leads to faster payment.
How do I handle late payments as a writer?
Include a late payment clause (for example, 1.5% per month after 30 days). Send a polite reminder a few days before the due date. Invoicing tools like Tidybill can automate reminders so you do not have to follow up manually.
Can I use this template for free?
Yes. Tidybill's free plan includes up to 5 invoices per month at no cost. No credit card required. Upgrade to Starter for unlimited invoices and automated payment reminders.
Academic Editor
Writing
Blogger
Writing
Accountant
Finance
Architect
Creative
Auto Detailer
Automotive