How to use this nz gst invoice
- Add your business name and your GST number in the “Tax / VAT ID” field. It shows as “GST no.” on the invoice.
- Add your customer’s name and, for larger sales, their address or other identifier.
- List the goods or services with prices excluding GST.
- Check that Tax in Totals is set to 15% with the label GST.
- Add your bank account details in the notes, then download the PDF.
What NZ taxable supply information must show
New Zealand replaced “tax invoices” with taxable supply information in 2023, but the idea is the same: a GST-registered seller must give a GST-registered buyer the details they need to claim GST back. Inland Revenue (IRD) sets the rules, which depend on the value of the sale:
- your business name (or trade name) and GST number
- the date of the invoice or the supply
- a description of the goods or services
- the total amount and the GST, or a statement that the price includes GST
- for higher-value sales, the buyer’s name and an identifier such as their address, phone number or NZBN
The editor covers all of these. Calling the document a “tax invoice”, as this preset does, is still common and fine. Check IRD’s website for the current value bands and details.
Not GST-registered, and exports
Not registered? Don’t charge GST or show a GST number. Set Tax to “No tax” and use a normal invoice template. You must register once your turnover goes over IRD’s threshold; check the current figure on ird.govt.nz.
Overseas clients: many services supplied to clients outside New Zealand are zero-rated. Set the currency to the client’s and the tax rate to 0%, but confirm the treatment with IRD or your accountant first.
New Zealand has no general e-invoicing mandate for private businesses, so a PDF invoice from here is fine to send. Some government agencies prefer e-invoices through the Peppol network.
Frequently asked questions
What is the GST rate in New Zealand?
The standard rate is 15%. Some supplies, such as exports, are zero-rated, and some, such as residential rent, are exempt.
Where do I put my GST number?
In the “Tax / VAT ID” field under Your business. It appears under your address on the invoice.
Do I still need to call it a tax invoice?
No. Since April 2023 the law talks about taxable supply information rather than tax invoices, but the title “Tax invoice” is still widely used and accepted.
Can I invoice in Australian or US dollars?
Yes. Change the currency in the editor. For GST purposes, keep a record of the NZ dollar value.