Standard Credit Note Template
Cancel or reduce an invoice you already sent — referenced, itemised and in a professional PDF.
100% freeNo signupNo watermarkInstant PDF download
Credit Note
How to write a standard credit note
A credit note reduces or cancels an amount the customer owes on an invoice you already issued. It is the correct, auditable way to fix an over-charge, process a return or apply a discount after the fact — never just editing or deleting the original invoice, which breaks your records.
This template opens with itemised lines. Reference the original invoice, list the items and amounts being credited, add any tax, and download a PDF credit note to send.
What to include
- “Credit Note” clearly labelled, with its own number and date
- A reference to the original invoice number and date
- Seller and buyer names and addresses
- The items and amounts being credited, with tax
- Whether it is refunded or applied to the account
Note: References the original invoice · applied to the buyer’s account
Frequently asked questions
What should a credit note include?
Its own number and date, a clear “Credit Note” label, a reference to the original invoice, the seller and buyer details, the items and amounts being credited with tax, and whether the amount is refunded or applied to the account.
Can I just edit the original invoice instead?
No — once an invoice is issued you should not change it. Issuing a separate credit note keeps a clean, auditable trail: the invoice stands, and the credit note formally offsets it.
Is this credit note template free?
Yes — create and download the PDF with no account. A free account lets you save clients and link credit notes to invoices in the Invoices Tracker.
Is this credit note generator free?
Yes — CalculatorAI's credit note generator is completely free. Create, customise and download as many professional PDF credit notes as you want, with no signup, no watermark and no trial limit. A free account adds saved clients, history and the Invoices Tracker.
What is a credit note and when do I issue one?
A credit note (or credit memo) is a document that cancels or reduces an amount on an invoice you already sent — for a return, cancellation, overcharge or post-invoice discount. It references the original invoice and is either applied against the buyer’s account or refunded.
Keep credit notes and invoices in one place
A credit note cancels or reduces an invoice you already sent. The Invoices Tracker keeps your invoices, credit notes and what each client still owes together — so your books always reconcile.
Open the Invoices Tracker