Proforma Invoice Format and Free Generator
A proforma invoice is a preliminary bill sent before goods or services are supplied. It tells the buyer exactly what they will be charged, so they can arrange payment, pay an advance, or apply for an import licence or letter of credit.
With InstaInvoice you can make a proforma invoice in the same format as your tax invoice and convert it to a GST invoice once you supply.
Free forever for billing · No credit card · Works on mobile, laptop and Windows
Highlights
Same look as your invoices
Your logo, items, GST and terms, clearly titled PROFORMA INVOICE.
Collect advances
Bank details and a UPI QR code on the document.
Track its status
Draft, Sent, Accepted, Invoiced or Cancelled.
Convert to invoice
Turn it into a tax invoice without retyping anything.
Proforma invoice format: what to include
- The title "Proforma Invoice" so it is not mistaken for a tax invoice
- Seller's name, address and GSTIN; buyer's name and address
- Proforma number, date and validity
- Description, HSN/SAC, quantity, rate and expected GST for each item
- Total value, advance required and payment terms
- Expected delivery date and terms of sale
Proforma invoice vs tax invoice
A proforma invoice is an offer, not a demand for payment under GST. It is not recorded as a sale, no GST is payable on it, and the buyer cannot claim Input Tax Credit from it. Once the goods or services are supplied, issue a regular tax invoice.
How to do it with InstaInvoice
- 1Sign up free and go to Sales Documents → Proforma Invoices.
- 2Add the customer and items; GST is shown as it will apply on the final invoice.
- 3Share the PDF on WhatsApp or email to collect the advance.
- 4When you supply, convert it to a tax invoice in one click.
Frequently asked questions
Is a proforma invoice valid under GST?
It is a commercial document, not a GST tax invoice. No GST is payable on it and it does not appear in your GST returns.
Can I claim ITC on a proforma invoice?
No. Input Tax Credit can only be claimed on the tax invoice issued after supply.
Is a proforma invoice the same as a quotation?
They are similar. A quotation is an offer while the buyer decides; a proforma invoice usually follows an agreed order and is used to collect payment in advance.
Can I convert a proforma invoice into a tax invoice?
Yes, in one click, with all the details carried over.