Free Invoice Template Guide: How to Create Professional Invoices Easily

Role of Invoicing in Business Operations

Invoicing is more than just a way to request payment. It plays a vital role in recording transactions, tracking revenue, and managing finances. Clear and accurate invoices help businesses maintain healthy cash flow, a key element for sustainability and growth. For freelancers and small business owners, ensuring that invoices are both professional and prompt is essential.

Clients rely on invoices for their own accounting, so including all necessary information helps avoid delays in payment. A simple invoice template ensures that every detail is consistently included, reducing the possibility of misunderstandings.

Common Challenges with Manual Invoicing

One of the main issues small business owners face is the inefficiency of creating invoices manually. Using generic word processing or spreadsheet programs often results in formatting inconsistencies and missing information. Each invoice might look different, leading to confusion or a lack of professionalism.

Additionally, manually calculating totals, taxes, and payment terms can introduce errors. Over time, these inconsistencies and mistakes may impact how clients perceive the business. Worse yet, they could result in delayed payments or disputes. A standardized template eliminates these risks by providing a consistent structure that includes all the necessary elements.

Key Elements Every Simple Invoice Template Should Include

To be effective, an invoice template should include several essential details. Leaving out any of these elements can cause confusion or delay payment. Here’s what to include:

• A unique invoice number
• The issue date and due date
• Business name, address, and contact information
• Client’s name and contact details
• Description of goods or services provided
• Quantity and unit price of items or services
• Applicable taxes and discounts
• The total amount due
• Payment terms and methods accepted

By consistently including these fields, businesses can ensure their invoices are clear, complete, and easy for clients to process.

Streamlining the Billing Process

A well-designed invoice template simplifies the billing process by reducing the time it takes to create, edit, and send invoices. Instead of starting from scratch each time, a template allows you to input the variable details—such as client name, service description, and hours worked—while keeping the structure intact.

This streamlined approach is especially valuable for freelancers and small business owners who manage multiple clients or projects. It helps reduce administrative burden and allows more time to be spent on core business activities.

Enhancing Professionalism Through Design

Invoicing is also an opportunity to reinforce a business’s branding. A visually clean and cohesive design creates a positive impression on clients. A template makes it easy to include branding elements like a company logo, color scheme, and professional layout.

Professional-looking invoices are more likely to be taken seriously and paid promptly. A client who sees a well-organized, branded invoice is more likely to view the sender as reliable and established. Small businesses benefit from presenting a polished image that aligns with the quality of their services or products.

Saving Time and Minimizing Human Error

Every minute saved on administrative work is time that can be reinvested in serving clients or growing a business. A reusable template significantly reduces the time it takes to prepare invoices, especially for repeat clients or recurring services.

Manual data entry also increases the risk of typographical and calculation errors. With a template, standard fields are preformatted, reducing the likelihood of mistakes. Over time, this translates into smoother financial operations and fewer corrections or follow-ups needed.

Consistency Across Business Documents

Consistency in documentation contributes to a professional and trustworthy image. When all business documents, including invoices, follow a uniform structure and design, it creates a sense of reliability. Clients appreciate knowing what to expect and where to find the information they need.

A simple invoice template ensures that the layout, terminology, and formatting remain consistent across all client communications. This helps build credibility and supports a strong client relationship.

Tracking Payments and Financial History

Accurate invoicing is a cornerstone of good financial management. With a standardized template, it becomes easier to keep detailed records of all transactions. This helps in monitoring income, following up on overdue payments, and planning for future expenses.

Organized invoices also simplify the process of filing taxes, applying for business loans, or conducting internal audits. They serve as official records that demonstrate income, service history, and payment terms.

Making the Transition to Templates

Switching from manual invoicing to using a template may require a small initial investment of time to design or select a suitable format. However, the benefits quickly outweigh the effort. Once set up, templates can be reused indefinitely, updated easily, and adapted to specific business needs.

Templates are also scalable. As a business grows, the same format can be used for more complex invoicing scenarios, such as multiple line items, international clients, or different tax structures. The flexibility offered by a good template makes it suitable for businesses at all stages of development.

Improving Client Communication

Invoices are more than billing tools—they are a formal mode of communication between a business and its clients. A clear and concise invoice helps convey important information, such as service details, payment timelines, and contact information for queries.

Clients value transparency, and a detailed invoice can reduce the likelihood of disputes or misunderstandings. It sets expectations clearly and gives both parties a document to refer back to if questions arise.

Adapting Templates to Different Business Models

Every business is unique, and a one-size-fits-all invoice rarely meets every need. A simple invoice template should be adaptable to suit different service types, billing models, and client preferences. For example, a graphic designer may bill by the hour, while a product-based business needs space for itemized lists.

The flexibility to add, remove, or modify sections ensures that the invoice remains relevant and functional across different industries. Choosing a template that can evolve with your business ensures long-term usefulness and minimal disruption.

Preparing for Financial Growth

Reliable invoicing practices are foundational for sustainable business growth. Clear, timely invoices support positive cash flow, which is essential for reinvestment and scaling operations. When clients are billed promptly and payments are received without delay, a business is better positioned to grow.

Templates contribute to this stability by minimizing errors, reducing delays, and ensuring that all necessary information is included. Over time, the habit of consistent, accurate invoicing creates a strong financial foundation that supports long-term success.

Leveraging Templates for Client Retention

Good invoicing practices can also improve client retention. A well-organized invoice shows clients that their business is valued and treated with professionalism. Small touches, such as personalized notes or reminders, can be built into templates to enhance the client experience.

Satisfied clients are more likely to return for additional work and recommend services to others. By using a thoughtful and professional invoicing system, businesses can build lasting client relationships.

Supporting Compliance and Transparency

Proper invoicing is important not only for internal operations but also for legal and regulatory compliance. Depending on your industry or location, certain information may be required on invoices, such as tax identification numbers or breakdowns of applicable taxes.

A template makes it easier to ensure that these details are always included, reducing the risk of non-compliance. It also supports transparency by clearly outlining what clients are paying for and why, fostering trust in the business relationship.

Facilitating Quick and Easy Payments

Another benefit of using an invoice template is the ability to include multiple payment options and clear instructions. When clients know exactly how and where to make payments, they are more likely to do so promptly.

Templates can include fields for bank details, online payment links, and any preferred payment methods. The easier it is for clients to pay, the less time is spent on follow-ups or payment delays.

A Strategic Tool for Business Efficiency

Invoicing should not be viewed as just another task to check off. It is a strategic tool that, when executed properly, contributes to a smoother operation, better client relationships, and healthier financial outcomes. A simple invoice template is a small but powerful asset in a business owner’s toolkit.

Setting Up Your Invoice Template Workspace

Before you start customizing an invoice, it’s essential to create an organized workspace where all your invoicing details can be managed efficiently. Whether you’re using an online platform or software installed on your device, make sure your workspace allows you to store templates, client records, and financial data in a way that’s easy to access and update.

An effective workspace includes a dedicated section for saved templates, categorized folders for each client, and tools for tracking invoice history. Begin by choosing a tool that supports template storage and customization. It should allow you to duplicate templates for different clients, keep a running list of past invoices, and sort invoices by status—sent, paid, overdue, or pending.

Choosing a Template Layout That Fits Your Brand

The layout of your invoice should reflect your brand’s professionalism while remaining easy to read. Start by selecting a layout with a clean and organized structure. The top section should include your business logo, name, and contact information. Immediately below that, display the client’s information in a designated area.

The central part of the template is where you’ll list the services or products provided. Use a tabular format with clearly marked headers such as item description, quantity, rate, and total. This format makes it easy for clients to understand what they’re being billed for. At the bottom of the invoice, reserve space for total calculations, taxes, notes, and payment instructions.

Make sure your font choices are readable and consistent. Use white space strategically to prevent clutter, and align all text and columns neatly. The layout should be functional while maintaining a professional look that aligns with your business identity.

Adding Business Information to the Template

The first editable section of your template should be the header that includes your business details. This information helps the client verify the invoice source and makes it easier for them to contact you if needed. Your header should include:

• Business name
• Physical or mailing address
• Phone number
• Email address
• Website URL (if applicable)

This section typically appears at the top-left or center of the invoice. You can also include your business registration number or tax identification number, depending on local regulations.

Including these details on every invoice ensures your clients have all the necessary information to process payments efficiently and professionally.

Customizing the Client Information Section

Directly below or adjacent to your business information, insert a client information section. This part of the invoice should be tailored to each recipient and includes:

• Client name or company name
• Contact person’s full name (if applicable)
• Address
• Phone number
• Email address

Keep the formatting consistent with the business information section. Clear client data prevents delivery issues, ensures that the invoice reaches the appropriate contact, and adds a personal touch to your communication. Always double-check this information before sending to avoid confusion or delays.

Structuring the Invoice Body for Clarity

The body of your invoice is where you describe what you’re charging for. This section should be presented in a table with multiple columns. Common columns include:

• Item or Service Description
• Quantity or Hours
• Rate per Unit or Hour
• Subtotal

Include a row for each separate item or task completed. Be as descriptive as possible while remaining concise. For example, instead of writing “Design work,” use “Logo design for product branding, including three concepts and final revisions.”

This detailed breakdown not only justifies the charges but also builds transparency with your client, making it less likely they will question the invoice.

Including Tax, Discounts, and Other Fees

Below your itemized list, add rows for additional financial details. These may include:

• Applicable sales tax or VAT
• Discount (if any)
• Additional fees (such as materials, travel, or rush services)

Clearly label each row and calculate totals accordingly. Showing these calculations enhances trust, ensures accuracy, and may even serve as documentation for your client’s accounting team.

If your rates are tax-inclusive, make a note of that to avoid confusion. Conversely, if tax is added after the subtotal, ensure it is clearly marked and calculated correctly.

Calculating and Displaying the Total Amount Due

At the bottom of the invoice, present a final summary. This typically includes:

• Subtotal (before tax and discounts)
• Tax amount
• Discounts (with description, if applicable)
• Total amount due

Make the total amount due stand out by using a slightly larger or bold font. This draws the client’s eye directly to the most important figure on the invoice. Ensure all amounts are calculated accurately and double-checked to avoid payment disputes.

This section also helps the client verify the value of your services and ensures alignment between your estimate and final billing.

Defining Payment Terms and Conditions

The next section of your invoice should define the payment terms. This includes:

• Due date or payment period (e.g., Net 30, due upon receipt)
• Accepted payment methods (e.g., bank transfer, credit card, check)
• Late payment penalties or interest
• Early payment discounts, if offered

Setting clear payment expectations reduces the chances of delay. Place this information right below the total amount due or in a designated section labeled “Payment Terms.” Consistent payment terms protect your cash flow and help clients plan their budgets accordingly. Be concise but thorough when explaining conditions to avoid any ambiguity.

Adding a Personalized Message or Note

Including a short message or note at the bottom of your invoice can enhance the client relationship. This message could be a simple thank-you note, a reminder of your working hours, or a brief comment about an upcoming project.

For example:

“Thank you for your continued business. Please reach out if you have any questions regarding this invoice. We look forward to our next project together.” Adding a personal touch humanizes your communication and fosters loyalty. It also gives you the opportunity to express appreciation, which is often overlooked in transactional documents.

Designing the Template to Reflect Your Brand Identity

Your invoice is a document that can carry your brand’s visual identity. Use consistent branding elements such as:

• Logo placement
• Company colors
• Typeface or font family
• Style of tables and borders

Avoid clutter by keeping the design simple and ensuring that branding enhances, rather than overwhelms, the readability of the invoice. A subtle watermark or footer with your business slogan can also reinforce brand recognition. These design elements show clients that attention to detail extends across all aspects of your business, including invoicing.

Testing and Reviewing Your Template Before Use

Before sending your first invoice, review the template thoroughly. Send a test invoice to yourself and view it on multiple devices or screens. Pay close attention to formatting, alignment, spelling, and math.

Use a checklist to confirm:

• All sections are visible and correctly labeled
• Totals add up accurately
• Business and client information is clear and legible
• Branding elements are correctly placed

Taking the time to thoroughly test your template ensures that you project professionalism and avoid unnecessary back-and-forth with clients.

Creating Templates for Different Use Cases

Consider building multiple invoice templates tailored to different service types, client categories, or regions. For instance:

• A project-based template with milestones and phases
• A time-based template with hourly breakdowns
• A recurring invoice template for subscription services

These specialized templates save even more time and ensure accuracy across different invoicing scenarios. Label each version clearly so they can be quickly accessed when needed. Flexibility in invoicing format is crucial for managing diverse client needs without compromising consistency or clarity.

Managing Templates in Your Workflow

Once your templates are ready, integrate them into your regular workflow. Create a naming convention for invoice files, such as: [ClientName][InvoiceNumber][Date].pdf. Store these in client-specific folders or a secure cloud-based system.

Organize your invoices chronologically or by payment status to track your income effectively. This kind of order makes it easier to locate files, send reminders, and report earnings when required. Use your preferred method to monitor invoice history, such as spreadsheets or a built-in dashboard, to check payment status and follow up on outstanding balances.

Preparing Templates for International Clients

If you work with clients in different countries, your invoice template may need adjustments. Consider the following:

• Currency formatting and symbols
• International tax laws or exemptions
• Localized date formats
• Language translation, if necessary

For example, if billing a client in Europe, include VAT where applicable. If you’re dealing with a client in Canada, specify tax rates such as GST or HST. Including proper information makes it easier for international clients to process the invoice promptly. Customizing templates for global use ensures smoother transactions and shows your willingness to accommodate clients’ needs.

Ensuring Security and Confidentiality

Invoicing often involves sensitive information, including personal client data and banking details. Secure your templates by:

• Saving them in encrypted folders or password-protected files
• Limiting access to authorized personnel only
• Using secure file-sharing methods when sending invoices

Respecting client confidentiality builds trust and protects your business from potential legal or reputational issues. It’s also a good practice to back up templates regularly to avoid data loss due to hardware failure or accidental deletion.

Updating Your Template Over Time

As your business evolves, so should your invoice template. Periodically review and update your template to reflect:

• New services or pricing models
• Branding updates
• Changes in tax law or payment methods

Feedback from clients can also inform improvements. If multiple clients request additional details or clarification, consider adding that section permanently to the template. Maintaining an up-to-date template ensures relevance, compliance, and continued professionalism in your billing process.

Creating a Template You Can Rely On

The best invoice template is one that fits seamlessly into your workflow and meets both your business and client needs. Taking the time to design a comprehensive, well-structured invoice template pays off by saving time, avoiding mistakes, and enhancing client relationships.

With a fully customized template in place, you can create, send, and track invoices more efficiently. In the next article, we’ll explore strategies for automating your invoicing process and integrating your templates into a larger system for long-term financial management.

Streamlining the Invoice Process Through Automation

Once your invoice template is in place, the next step is to streamline your workflow. Automating repetitive invoicing tasks not only saves time but also ensures consistency and accuracy across your documents. Begin by setting up systems that allow recurring invoices to be sent on a schedule. If you charge the same client monthly for the same service, automate the process to generate and dispatch the invoice without manual intervention.

You can also create automation rules for payment reminders, late fees, and follow-up emails. These rules should be configured to trigger at specific intervals, such as one day before the due date, the day of the due date, and several days after if payment is late. This proactive approach reduces the likelihood of delayed payments and minimizes administrative overhead.

Integrating Invoicing with Time Tracking and Project Management

If you bill clients by the hour or manage multiple projects simultaneously, integrating your invoice template with time tracking and project management systems can make billing more accurate. Time logs from tasks or projects can be directly imported into your invoice template, reducing manual entry and minimizing errors.

For instance, if you spend ten hours on a consulting project over several weeks, your tracking tool should be able to automatically calculate the total billable hours and apply the corresponding hourly rate. The detailed breakdown can then be imported directly into the invoice body.

Project management integration also ensures that deliverables, milestones, and deadlines are aligned with your invoice schedule. This helps justify charges and keeps clients informed of progress.

Enabling Online Payment Options

To make it easier for clients to settle their invoices, include online payment options directly in your invoice. This could be a link to a payment gateway or a QR code that redirects to a payment portal. Offering multiple methods—such as credit cards, bank transfers, and digital wallets—ensures clients can choose the most convenient way to pay.

This feature speeds up the payment cycle and improves your cash flow. Include instructions or links within the payment terms section of your invoice. Be sure to also note any transaction fees or preferred payment methods if applicable. Offering a seamless payment experience reduces friction and boosts client satisfaction.

Setting Up a Follow-Up System for Outstanding Invoices

No matter how well your invoices are designed, some payments will inevitably be late. Setting up a follow-up system ensures that outstanding invoices don’t go unnoticed. Begin by creating a standard sequence of reminder emails that are triggered based on the invoice due date.

The first reminder should be friendly and polite, simply stating that the payment is due. If the invoice remains unpaid after the first reminder, subsequent messages can escalate in tone, remaining professional but emphasizing the urgency. Documenting all communication related to outstanding invoices is essential for tracking disputes and protecting your interests should any legal action be necessary.

Leveraging Analytics to Monitor Invoice Performance

Analytics can provide valuable insights into your invoicing efficiency. Track metrics such as:

• Average payment time
• Number of overdue invoices
• Revenue by client or service type
• Success rates of follow-up reminders

Use these insights to identify patterns, optimize payment terms, and refine client management strategies. For example, if a particular client consistently delays payment, consider adjusting your terms or requiring a deposit upfront. Monitoring performance ensures that your billing practices evolve based on real data, leading to more predictable revenue and better resource allocation.

Creating a Central Repository for Invoice Records

Maintaining a centralized location for all your invoices makes retrieval and auditing significantly easier. Organize files using a consistent naming convention and group them by month, client, or project.

This system should also track payment status—paid, unpaid, partially paid, and disputed. Keeping accurate and up-to-date records is vital for bookkeeping, tax filing, and financial planning. Consider backing up this repository to cloud storage for redundancy and easy access from multiple devices. A well-maintained archive helps you stay compliant and ready for financial reviews at any time.

Addressing Client Disputes Professionally

Sometimes, clients may question or contest charges on an invoice. Handle such disputes professionally and swiftly. First, review the invoice and associated documentation to verify its accuracy. Then, reach out to the client to understand their concerns.

Provide clear explanations and, if necessary, revised invoices that reflect any agreed-upon changes. Maintain records of all correspondence and agreements related to the dispute. A dispute resolution process that is transparent and respectful helps preserve client relationships while upholding your billing policies.

Developing a Consistent Invoicing Routine

Consistency in invoicing improves cash flow and client trust. Set aside time on a weekly or biweekly basis to issue new invoices, follow up on outstanding payments, and update your records.

Align this routine with your broader financial management schedule, including expense tracking and budget planning. Using a calendar or task management system can help you stick to this routine and avoid lapses. A disciplined approach minimizes surprises, ensures regular income, and projects a dependable image to your clients.

Incorporating Legal Disclosures and Notices

Depending on your industry and location, certain legal disclaimers or notices may be required on your invoices. These may include:

• Tax registration numbers
• Late payment policies
• Terms and conditions
• Refund or cancellation policies

Consult with a legal advisor to ensure your template includes all necessary disclosures. Doing so not only keeps you compliant but also protects you in case of a dispute. Add these disclosures at the bottom of the invoice in a smaller font to avoid disrupting the overall layout.

Using Invoicing to Improve Client Communication

Your invoice can serve as more than just a bill—it can be a communication tool. Use it to update clients on the progress of a project, upcoming deadlines, or future availability.

For example, include a brief note like, “Looking forward to our next meeting on the 15th,” or “Phase two of this project will commence next month.” These small updates keep clients informed and reinforce that you’re organized and proactive. Invoices that communicate effectively contribute to smoother workflows and better client satisfaction.

Optimizing for Mobile Viewing and Printing

With many clients reviewing documents on mobile devices, your invoice template should be mobile-friendly. This means using a responsive layout that adapts to different screen sizes without compromising readability.

Avoid using wide tables or complex formatting that breaks when viewed on a phone. Test your invoices across devices and screen orientations. Additionally, ensure that the document prints cleanly by maintaining margins, avoiding background colors, and using standard paper sizes. Accessibility and usability across devices improve the likelihood of prompt payment and reduce client friction.

Sending Invoices Securely and Confidentially

Ensure that every invoice sent to a client is secure and maintains confidentiality. Use secure email services or encrypted file transfer platforms to prevent unauthorized access.

Add password protection to PDF invoices if necessary, especially when billing involves sensitive financial information. Let clients know how to access protected documents and provide a contact point for any issues. Being proactive about security demonstrates professionalism and helps build trust with your clients.

Customizing Invoices for Different Pricing Models

Different businesses use different pricing models—fixed, hourly, tiered, or value-based. Your invoice template should be flexible enough to accommodate these models.

For fixed pricing, include a clear project name and flat fee. For hourly work, break down time entries and rates. For tiered pricing, show each level of service and its corresponding cost. For value-based pricing, briefly describe the deliverables that justify the pricing. This clarity helps clients understand the value you provide and reduces the chance of misunderstandings.

Offering Early Payment Incentives

Encourage quicker payments by offering early payment discounts. For example, you might offer a 2% discount if the invoice is paid within 10 days instead of the standard 30.

Highlight this incentive clearly in the payment terms section of your invoice. Ensure your total reflects this option, either by showing the discount separately or as an alternate total. Early payment incentives can improve your cash flow and make your invoices more appealing to clients.

Keeping Your Template Aligned with Tax Requirements

As tax laws change, your invoice template should be reviewed and updated accordingly. This includes adjusting tax rates, adding new tax fields, or updating registration numbers.

Keep records of the applicable tax rules at the time of each invoice. If you’re audited, this documentation will support your compliance and help avoid penalties. Stay informed through official tax websites or by working with a qualified accountant to ensure your templates are always accurate.

Tracking Partial Payments and Deposits

Sometimes clients make partial payments or pay a deposit upfront. Your invoice should accommodate this by showing the full amount, the amount paid, and the remaining balance.

Use a section near the totals to reflect these figures. Include payment dates and transaction references when available. This level of detail helps both you and the client stay informed and reduces the need for clarification. Accurate tracking of partial payments supports better financial forecasting and improves transparency.

Handling Refunds and Adjustments Gracefully

On occasion, you may need to issue a refund or adjustment. Design your template to allow for negative line items or credit memos. Clearly label these as refunds, returns, or discounts so they are not confused with standard charges.

Document the reason for the adjustment and include reference numbers if applicable. Always update your records to reflect the changes and ensure consistency between the original and adjusted invoice. Managing these scenarios well helps maintain your credibility and shows your commitment to fairness.

Maintaining Brand Consistency Across Invoicing

Your invoice is a key part of your overall client experience. Ensuring brand consistency helps reinforce trust and recognition. Use the same logo, colors, fonts, and tone of voice across all client communications—including invoices.

This creates a cohesive image and makes your business appear more established. Whether it’s a follow-up email, proposal, or invoice, clients should instantly recognize your brand. Attention to these details enhances your professional image and builds long-term relationships.

Planning for Growth Through Scalable Invoicing Systems

As your business expands, so will your invoicing needs. Plan ahead by choosing systems and processes that scale. Your template should be flexible enough to handle increased volume, multiple currencies, and varied tax requirements.

Establish naming and tracking systems that remain effective as the number of clients or projects grows. Regularly audit your invoicing process to identify bottlenecks and introduce improvements. A scalable approach ensures your invoicing remains efficient even as your workload increases, supporting sustained business growth.

Training Your Team on Invoicing Best Practices

If you work with a team, ensure everyone involved in invoicing understands your template, procedures, and expectations. Create a guide that outlines how to:

• Enter client information
• Apply tax and discount rules
• Save and send invoices correctly
• Follow up on overdue payments

Regular training sessions or updates can help team members stay aligned with evolving policies and ensure consistency. Team-wide understanding of your invoicing process boosts productivity and reduces errors, creating a smoother client experience overall.

Conclusion

Creating and managing professional invoices doesn’t have to be a complex or expensive process. As we’ve explored throughout this series, using a streamlined and simple invoice template offers substantial advantages for freelancers, small businesses, and startups alike. From the initial setup and customization to incorporating branding elements and optimizing workflows, an effective invoicing system can significantly enhance your business operations.

By focusing on clarity, consistency, and professionalism, your invoices become more than just financial documents—they become touchpoints that reflect your business values and strengthen client relationships. A well-designed invoice not only ensures timely payments but also demonstrates that you take your business seriously. Whether you’re billing for services, goods, or project-based work, having a standardized and efficient process saves time, reduces errors, and improves your overall financial health.

The journey from choosing a basic invoice format to fully customizing it for your brand is well worth the effort. Automating repetitive tasks, maintaining proper records, and ensuring that every invoice you send is accurate and aesthetically aligned with your business are keys to long-term success. By implementing the practices covered in this series, you can transition from tedious manual invoicing to a smooth, reliable, and professional billing process.

In the end, adopting a smart and easy approach to invoicing frees you up to do what matters most: focusing on your craft, serving your clients, and growing your business with confidence.