[RobAley]

While this is good from a UX perspective, don't rely on tools like this to make sure that you include all information on an invoice that you're legally required to include.

For instance, in the UK (which appears to be where this company is based), all invoices for VAT registered companies must carry their VAT Registration Number. However with this tool, even if you select to include VAT in the settings (which you must do if you're VAT registered), there is no box or prompt to include your VAT reg no.

I.E., never rely on 3rd party services to make sure you are complying with the law. It's your backside on the line if you or they get it wrong.

[davedx]

Indeed. Here in the Netherlands I need to include a line stating "The VAT is transferred to you" if I'm invoice clients outside of the EU, because I do not charge them VAT. These kind of options can be tricky.

[ownagefool]

Most contractors I know do exactly that. These 3rd party services are called accountants.

[RobAley]

And I'm saying its a bad idea to rely solely on those 3rd party services to know whats what. Even Accountants. Certainly here in the UK, if your accountant messes up, you're still the one liable. You then have to chase after them for recompense, while they play the "you didn't give us enough information" or "read the T&Cs, we're not liable" game. I've seen it happen too many times.

By all means bring in the professionals to advise you and do the donkey work, but educate yourself on the rules and regs. "Trust but verify" their work.

[wikwocket]

It's always good advice for any consultant or company to have their accountant (and lawyer, if applicable) review anything related to their field. It's why we have them.

However I would not criticize a tool for not covering all the p's and q's of every country's tax and legal code. If every startup/SAAS had to handle all these cases, we would have far fewer of the cool services we use today.

[afcapel]

You can include your VAT number, or any other info you want, in the field for your company details.

[RobAley]

My point was that you need to know what you legally need to put on there in advance. While this particular tool allows you to create a complete, legal invoice, it doesn't give you all the info you need to do so. You still need to do the leg work and make sure you know whats what.