What is a sales invoice primarily used for?

A sales invoice is primarily used to detail the products or services provided to a customer and the amount due to the seller. This document serves as a formal request for payment and provides a comprehensive summary of the transaction, including essential information such as the description of the items or services, their quantity, price, payment terms, and any applicable taxes.

This is crucial for both the seller and the buyer. For the seller, it acts as proof of sale and is an important part of the accounting records, facilitating accurate financial reporting and inventory management. For the buyer, it serves as a record of the purchase, which can be important for expense tracking and warranty claims.

While customer complaints, company policies, and employee hours relate to different aspects of business operations, they do not capture the fundamental purpose of a sales invoice, which is centered exclusively on documenting sales transactions and payment obligations.