Freelancer invoice template for Canada

A freelancer invoice is how you turn finished work into paid work. This template is set up for Canada: CAD currency and the right tax label. Canada invoices usually include GST (standard rate 5 percent), which this template adds for you.

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Example freelancer invoice in CAD

Description	Qty	Rate	Amount
Website copywriting, 5 pages	1	CA$750.00	CA$750.00
Strategy call (hours)	2	CA$90.00	CA$180.00
Revision round	1	CA$150.00	CA$150.00
Subtotal			CA$1,080.00
GST 5%			CA$54.00
Total			CA$1,134.00

In this sample the subtotal is CA$1,080.00, GST at 5 percent adds CA$54.00, and the total is CA$1,134.00. Sample figures only.

What a Canada invoice must include

Your business name, address and GST/HST registration number
The customer's name and billing address
Invoice number and invoice date
A description of the goods or services and the amount before tax
The GST or HST amount, and any provincial tax, shown separately
The total and your payment terms

What a freelancer invoice should show

Your name or business name, address and email
The client's name and billing address
A unique invoice number (INV-001, INV-002 and so on)
Invoice date and a clear due date, for example net 14 or net 30
Line items that describe the work, with hours or quantity and rate
Payment details: bank transfer, PayPal or other methods you accept

Getting paid in Canada

Common ways to pay are Interac e-Transfer, electronic funds transfer, cheque or card. Typical payment terms: net 30 is common. Interest on late payments should be agreed in your contract and written on the invoice.

Mistakes to avoid

Vague lines such as "work done". Clients pay faster when they can match each line to a deliverable.
No due date. Without one, the invoice has no deadline to be late against.
Charging GST when you are a small supplier and not registered.
Using 5 percent GST in a province where HST applies.

Practical tips

Send the invoice the day the work is approved, not at the end of the month. If a project is large, split it into a deposit, a milestone and a final invoice.

The federal GST rate is 5 percent. Some provinces combine federal and provincial tax into HST at a higher rate, while others charge provincial sales tax separately, so the rate depends on where the supply is made. Small suppliers whose taxable revenue stays under the government threshold do not have to register for GST/HST, but they can choose to.

Frequently asked questions

How much should I charge per hour as a freelancer?

It depends on your field, experience and market. Check recent rates from comparable freelancers, add your costs and taxes, and state the rate clearly on the invoice so it is easy to compare.

Do freelancers need to charge tax on invoices?

It depends on your country and income. In some places you must register for VAT or sales tax once you pass a threshold. Check your local tax authority.

What is the difference between GST and HST?

GST is the federal tax. HST combines the federal and provincial parts in some provinces. Others charge GST plus a separate provincial tax.

Do I need to charge GST as a freelancer in Canada?

Only once you are registered, which is required after you pass the small supplier threshold. Check with the CRA.

Related templates

Last reviewed: October 2026. This page is general information, not legal, tax or accounting advice. Rules and rates change, so check the Canada Revenue Agency before relying on it.