> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://knowledge.out-smart.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://knowledge.out-smart.com/backoffice/backoffice/invoices/what-are-invoices.md).

# What are Invoices?

Understand how invoices work in OutSmart and what the invoice module includes.

An invoice is the billing document you send to a customer for completed work or delivered goods.

It shows what you charged, how much is due, and the current payment status.

### How invoices work in OutSmart

OutSmart includes a built-in invoice module.

You do not need a separate invoicing tool to create, send, and manage invoices.

You can create invoices in three ways:

* as a standalone invoice
* from a completed work order
* from a quotation

If one job includes multiple work orders, you can bundle them into one invoice.

{% hint style="info" %}
When you send an invoice, it becomes final.

You can no longer edit or delete it afterward.
{% endhint %}

### What happens when you invoice work

When you create an invoice from a work order, OutSmart copies the available work data.

That can include customer details, used materials, and registered hours.

When you create an invoice from a quotation, OutSmart copies the quotation data into the new invoice.

### How invoice status works

Invoices use statuses to show where they are in the process.

For example, they can still be a draft, already be sent, or already be paid.

These statuses use colors, and you can change those colors to fit your workflow.

### How invoice setup stays organized

Invoice schemes control the main sending flow.

A scheme combines:

* the invoice layout
* the email template
* reminder settings
* expiry and payment term behavior

You can create multiple schemes for different customers, languages, or billing flows.

### How payment registration works

You can register received payments on an invoice manually.

When the full amount is registered, the invoice status changes to **Paid** automatically.

### Frequently asked questions

<details>

<summary>Can I edit an invoice after I send it?</summary>

No.

A sent invoice is final.

Create a credit invoice if you need to correct it.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Do I need a separate invoicing program?</summary>

No.

OutSmart includes invoicing in the product.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Can OutSmart send reminders automatically?</summary>

Yes.

Set that up in the invoice scheme.

</details>

### Related topics

* [**Create an invoice**](/backoffice/backoffice/invoices/create-an-invoice.md)
* [**Credit an invoice**](/backoffice/backoffice/invoices/credit-an-invoice.md)
* [**Register a transaction on an invoice**](/backoffice/backoffice/invoices/register-a-transaction-on-an-invoice.md)
* [**Create an invoice scheme**](/backoffice/backoffice/invoices/create-an-invoice-scheme.md)
* [**Create an invoice layout**](/backoffice/backoffice/invoices/create-an-invoice-layout.md)
* [**Create an invoice email template**](/backoffice/backoffice/invoices/create-an-invoice-email-template.md)


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