What is Line Item?

A line item is an individual row on an invoice, estimate, or proposal that describes a specific charge. Each line item typically includes a description, quantity, unit price, and the calculated total for that item.

For example, a web designer's invoice might include these line items:

• Homepage design — 1 x £800.00 = £800.00
• Inner page design — 4 x £300.00 = £1,200.00
• Logo revisions — 2 hours x £75.00/hr = £150.00

Well-written line items help in several ways:

• Clarity: Clients can see exactly what they are paying for
• Faster payment: Detailed breakdowns reduce queries and disputes
• Records: Clear line items make bookkeeping and tax returns easier
• Professionalism: Specificity builds trust with clients

Best practices for writing line items:

• Be specific — "Website copywriting (5 pages, 500 words each)" is better than "Writing"
• Use consistent units — hours, days, items, or flat fees
• Group related work logically
• If VAT-registered, show the VAT rate per line item or as a clear total

OwnedWork lets you save common line items as templates so you can quickly add them to new invoices without retyping descriptions each time.