Proforma Invoice Format
Free Maker for Indian Businesses
Create a professional proforma invoice to collect advance payment or confirm order details. Download as PDF instantly.
What is a Proforma Invoice?
A proforma invoice is a preliminary bill of sale sent to buyers before a shipment or delivery of goods or services. It is used to declare the value of goods for customs, collect advance payment, or confirm the details of an order. Unlike a tax invoice, a proforma invoice does not create a GST liability.
How to Create a Proforma Invoice Online
Enter Your Details
Add your company name, GSTIN, address, and client information.
Add Items & Prices
List items or services with rates. GST is auto-calculated.
Download PDF
Preview your proforma invoice live and download as PDF in one click.
Proforma Invoice vs Tax Invoice
| Aspect | Proforma Invoice | Tax Invoice |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Sent before delivery to confirm deal | Sent after delivery to request payment |
| Legal Status | Not a legal demand for payment | Legal document — payment obligation |
| GST Liability | No GST liability created | GST liability created on issue date |
| Booking/Advance | Used to collect advance payment | Raised after full delivery/service |
| Document Name | "Proforma Invoice" | "Tax Invoice" or "Invoice" |
When to Use a Proforma Invoice?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a proforma invoice?
A proforma invoice is a preliminary bill of sale sent to buyers before delivery. It confirms the deal details, pricing, and terms but does not create a GST liability or payment obligation.
When should I use a proforma invoice?
Use a proforma invoice when you need to collect advance payment, confirm order details before starting work, for export shipments requiring customs clearance, or when a buyer needs internal approval before purchasing.
Is a proforma invoice legally binding?
No. A proforma invoice is not a legal demand for payment. It is an estimate or quotation in invoice format. Only a final tax invoice creates a legal payment obligation.
What is the difference between proforma invoice and tax invoice?
A proforma invoice is sent before delivery to confirm deal terms. A tax invoice is sent after delivery and creates a GST liability. Only a tax invoice is valid for claiming input tax credit (ITC).
Can I convert a proforma invoice to a tax invoice?
Yes. With ContractorDash, you can convert an accepted proforma invoice to a final GST tax invoice in one click — no re-entering of data needed.
Is this proforma invoice maker free?
Yes, you can create and download up to 2 proforma invoices per session for free. The PDF includes a small watermark. Sign up for a free account to remove the watermark and get unlimited documents.
Related Free Tools
Convert Proforma to Tax Invoice in One Click
With ContractorDash, create a proforma invoice and when the work is done, convert it to a final GST invoice automatically.