Credit Invoice Template

Create professional credit invoices (credit notes) for refunds, returns, and billing adjustments with clear references to the original invoice. This credit invoice template supports itemized credits, price corrections, shipping credits, and service adjustments—ideal for businesses that need clean documentation for accounting and customer records. Download instantly in PDF, Word, or Excel format.

Instant PDF Export
No Signup Required
Industry Standard

From

Branding & Authorization

Services

$100.00
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00

Invoice Details

Tax, Discount & Shipping

Payment Methods

Bill to

Subtotal$100.00
Total (USD)$100.00

What to Include on a Credit Invoice

Credit invoices (often called credit notes or credit memos) should clearly reference the original invoice and explain the adjustment.

Key details
  • Original invoice number
  • Credit reason
  • Credit type (return, adjustment, refund)
  • Itemized credit amounts
Common credit line items
  • Credit/adjustment
  • Returned items credit
  • Service adjustment
  • Shipping credit
  • Price correction
  • Goodwill credit
Totals
  • Total credit amount
  • Notes on how the credit is applied (to balance or refund)

When to Use a Credit Invoice

Businesses issue credit invoices in a few common situations.

Typical uses
  • Returned products
  • Overbilling or incorrect pricing
  • Service disputes or partial adjustments
  • Shipping or fulfillment errors
  • Goodwill credits for customer support
A credit invoice creates a clear paper trail that helps both the customer and your accounting team.

How to Itemize Credits for Accounting

Clear itemization makes credits easier to reconcile.

Best practices
  • Match descriptions to the original invoice items
  • Use a short credit reason (e.g., “Return”, “Price correction”)
  • Include the original invoice number on the document and in the notes
This helps reduce confusion and ensures credits are applied correctly.

Applying Credits: Open Balances vs Refunds

Credits can be applied in different ways.

Common approaches
  • Apply the credit to an open invoice balance
  • Apply the credit to future invoices
  • Issue a refund if the account is paid
Your terms section can clarify how credits are handled based on policy and agreement.

Frequently Asked Questions