Invoice Template for Translators
Whether you translate legal documents, marketing copy or technical manuals, a clear invoice reflects the precision you bring to your work. Our free template helps UK-based translators and interpreters bill clients with confidence.
Create Your Invoice NowWhat to Include in Your Translator Invoice
- Your name or business name and contact details
- Client name, company and address
- Invoice number and date
- Language pair (e.g. French to English, Mandarin to English)
- Document or project description
- Word count or number of pages translated
- Rate (per word, per page, per hour or fixed project fee)
- Certification or notarisation fees if applicable
- Total amount, currency and payment details
Translator Invoicing Tips
- 1Always specify the source and target language on the invoice — it avoids confusion when clients commission multiple language pairs.
- 2If you charge per word, state both the word count and rate clearly (e.g. 3,500 words × £0.10 = £350).
- 3For certified or sworn translations, charge a premium and list the certification as a separate line item.
- 4Invoice in your local currency unless you've agreed otherwise — foreign exchange fluctuations can eat into your fee.
- 5Build rush fees into your rate card (e.g. 50% surcharge for 24-hour turnaround) and state them on the invoice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do translators charge per word in the UK?
UK-based translators typically charge £0.08–£0.15 per word for common language pairs (French, Spanish, German to English) and £0.12–£0.25+ for rarer languages or specialist fields (legal, medical, technical). Certified translations command higher rates.
Do translators charge VAT in the UK?
If your taxable turnover exceeds £90,000, you must register for VAT. An important nuance: if your client is a business based outside the UK, the place of supply rules may mean you don't charge UK VAT on those services. Check HMRC's guidance on B2B services.
What's the difference between translation and interpreting on an invoice?
Translation is written work, typically charged per word or per page. Interpreting is spoken work, usually charged per hour or half-day. If you provide both services, list them as separate line items with different rates.
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