Definition
The invoice date is the date an invoice is issued. It is the reference point for calculating the due date under net payment terms and determines which accounting and tax period the sale belongs to. It is usually, but not always, the same as the date the invoice is sent.
Also called: Issue date, Date of issue
Invoice date in practice
Because Net 30 and similar terms count from the invoice date, dating an invoice earlier than you send it shortens the client's real window and can cause friction. Date it the day you send it, or state the delivery date separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I backdate an invoice?
Backdating to move a sale into a different tax period is improper. If you forgot to invoice on delivery, use today's date and note the service period on the invoice.