What should a professional receipt contain?
Essential Components:
Title – “Receipt” or “Payment/Cash Receipt”.
Business details – company name, address, contact details, VAT number if registered.
Receipt number – unique sequential identifier.
Date of payment – when the transaction took place.
Customer details – name and, if needed, address or contact info.
Description – short outline of goods or services purchased.
Amount paid – clearly shown, with currency.
VAT – displayed separately if applicable.
Total – marked as “Paid in Full” when no balance remains.
Payment method – cash, card, cheque, bank transfer, etc.
Optional Components:
Invoice reference – if the payment relates to a specific invoice.
Remaining balance – only if the payment was partial.
Signature or authorisation – not mandatory, but sometimes included.
Tip
Always issue a receipt immediately after receiving payment. It reassures customers, supports accounting records, and may be required for refunds or returns.
When and why are receipts used?
Proof of purchase – confirms the customer has paid.
Tax and accounting records – supports bookkeeping and audits.
Customer service – essential for warranties, returns or disputes.
Transparency – details the transaction clearly and professionally.