Your First Invoice in 5 Minutes
This guide walks you through creating and sending your first invoice in Daybook. No prior setup required.
Before You Start
You'll need:
- A Daybook account (sign up at app.hellodaybook.com)
- Your client's email address
- The amount to charge
Step 1: Add Your Client
- From the dashboard, click Clients in the sidebar
- Click Add Client
- Enter the client's name and email address
- Click Save
Quick Add
You can also add a client directly while creating an invoice. Just click "Add new client" in the client dropdown.
Step 2: Create the Invoice
- Click Invoices in the sidebar
- Click New Invoice
- Select your client from the dropdown
- Add line items:
- Description: What you're billing for (e.g., "Website Design")
- Quantity: Number of units
- Rate: Price per unit
- Set the Due Date (default is 30 days)
Step 3: Add Tax (Optional)
If you need to charge tax:
- Click Add Tax below the line items
- Select your tax rate (or set up custom rates)
- The tax will calculate automatically
Step 4: Send the Invoice
- Review the invoice preview on the right
- Click Send Invoice
- Your client will receive an email with a link to view and pay
Payment Link
The email includes a secure payment link. Customers can pay by credit card or bank transfer without creating an account.
What Happens Next
- Immediately: Your client receives the invoice by email
- When they pay: You get a notification and the invoice is marked as paid
- Funds arrival: Money arrives in your bank account in 2-3 business days (Stripe)
Common Questions
Can I customize the invoice design?
Yes. Go to Settings → Invoice Settings to:
- Add your logo
- Set default payment terms
- Customize the invoice number format
What if my client doesn't have email?
You can share the invoice link directly. See Sending Invoice Without Email.
How do I record a cash payment?
If your client pays by cash or check, see Marking Paid (Cash/Check).
Next Steps
- Set up your tax rates for automatic calculations
- Connect Stripe to accept online payments
- Understand platform fees on the free plan