What Does Net 30 Mean on an Invoice? (UK Guide)
If you've received or sent an invoice with "Net 30" on it, you might be wondering what it means — and whether you're legally required to honour it.
This guide explains Net 30 and other common payment terms used on UK invoices.
What Does Net 30 Mean?
Net 30 means payment is due within 30 calendar days of the invoice date.
- Invoice date: 1 April
- Net 30 payment due: 1 May
The word "net" in this context means the full amount — not a discount or partial payment. "Net 30" simply means "the full amount is due within 30 days."
Common Invoice Payment Terms in the UK
| Term | Meaning | |------|---------| | Net 7 | Payment due within 7 days | | Net 14 | Payment due within 14 days | | Net 30 | Payment due within 30 days | | Net 60 | Payment due within 60 days | | Due on receipt | Payment expected immediately | | EOM | End of month — due by the last day of the month |
What Payment Terms Are Standard in the UK?
There's no single UK standard, but:
- 30 days is the most common default
- 14 days is popular with freelancers and small businesses
- 60–90 days are sometimes requested by large corporations or agencies — but you're not obligated to accept these terms
Under the Late Payment of Commercial Debts (Interest) Act 1998, if no payment terms are agreed, the default is 30 days for business-to-business transactions.
Can a Client Impose Long Payment Terms on You?
Large clients sometimes request 60 or 90-day terms. In the UK, this is legal between businesses — but you can negotiate. You are not obligated to accept terms you haven't agreed to.
If you accept a job, it's best practice to agree payment terms in writing before starting work.
What Happens If a Client Pays Late?
If payment isn't received by the due date, UK law gives you the right to:
- Charge statutory interest — 8% above the Bank of England base rate
- Claim debt recovery costs — £40 for debts under £1,000, £70 for £1,000–£9,999, £100 for £10,000+
You don't need a court order to add interest — it's automatic under the 1998 Act for B2B transactions.
See our guide: How to Charge Late Payment Interest in the UK
How to Set Payment Terms on Your Invoice
Your invoice should clearly state:
- Payment due date (e.g. "Payment due by 1 May 2026")
- Or payment terms (e.g. "Net 30 days from invoice date")
Some freelancers prefer to write the specific date rather than "Net 30" — it removes ambiguity.
Also include your bank details (sort code and account number, or your PayPal/payment link) so the client can pay without having to ask.
Tips for Getting Paid on Time
- Use shorter payment terms — Net 14 is more likely to get paid quickly than Net 30
- Send invoices promptly — same day as delivery if possible
- Chase early — a friendly reminder a few days before the due date can make a big difference
- Include bank details on the invoice — don't make clients ask
- State your late payment policy clearly on the invoice
Create a Professional Invoice with Clear Payment Terms
Billdrop lets you set your payment terms and due date on every invoice. Download a professional PDF in seconds — no account required.