Understanding Invoicing in the United States
Unlike countries like Brazil, where electronic invoices are mandatory and regulated by the government, in the United States the equivalent of a “nota fiscal” is typically an invoice or a sales receipt. These documents are essential for tax reporting, bookkeeping, and customer communication. There is no single national invoicing system, but maintaining organized and accurate records is critical—especially for state and federal tax compliance.
Shopify allows you to generate receipts and invoices either manually or automatically using integrated apps, depending on your sales volume and needs.
Does Shopify Automatically Generate Invoices?
By default, Shopify does not issue a traditional invoice, but it automatically sends order confirmations and receipts via email after each purchase. These receipts include:
- Customer name
- Purchased items
- Quantity and price
- Taxes (calculated based on state)
- Payment method
- Shipping address
This email can serve as an invoice for many purposes in the U.S. However, if you want a custom, professional invoice that matches your brand or accounting standards, the best way is to integrate invoice apps.
How to Automatically Generate Detailed Invoices
To create branded, IRS-compliant invoices with tax details and your logo, Shopify offers several powerful apps. Here are the top picks:
- Sufio: Professional Invoices
Automatically creates professional invoices for each order. Compliant with U.S., EU, and global standards. Ideal for B2B or high-volume stores. - Order Printer Pro by FORSBERG+two
Enables beautiful PDF receipts and invoices. You can print or email them automatically to customers. - QuickBooks Online or Xero Integration
Connect your store with accounting platforms to sync orders, customers, and payments, then generate invoices within those systems. - Avatax by Avalara
A great solution for large stores selling in multiple states. It calculates tax automatically by location and generates compliant reports and tax documents.
Steps to Automate Invoicing on Shopify
- Install an app from Shopify App Store
Search for “Invoice” or “Receipt” and choose an app that matches your business needs. - Customize your invoice layout
Add your logo, business tax details (EIN, address, etc.), and any custom fields you need. - Set up automation
Configure the app to send invoices to customers automatically upon each order. - Connect with your accounting software
If you use QuickBooks, Xero, or Wave, link them to your store to avoid manual data entry. - Export monthly reports
Most apps let you export invoices in PDF or Excel format for tax filing or sharing with your accountant.
Are Invoices Required by Law?
In the U.S., sending an invoice or receipt is not mandatory for all consumer transactions, but it is highly recommended for legal protection, returns, bookkeeping, and business professionalism. In particular, you must issue invoices in these cases:
- B2B sales
- International shipments
- Upon customer request
- During tax audits or reporting
That’s why automating this process is a smart move for any serious e-commerce business.
Build Trust With Transparent Billing
A clear, professional invoice shows reliability and credibility. Many U.S. customers expect to receive invoices for returns, reimbursements, or company purchases. Shopify gives you the foundation—you just need to set it up properly.
Start With a Professional Store Today
Haven’t launched your store yet? You can start now with a special offer and pay just $1 for the first month.
Create your store for free with this link: https://shopify.pxf.io/1dolarJ
With just a few clicks, you’ll have a fast, secure, and fully customizable store — with invoice automation included.
