What is the most common payment term?

Net 30 is the global standard for B2B invoicing. It gives clients a reasonable payment window while maintaining healthy cash flow for the seller.

Can I change payment terms for existing clients?

Yes — but communicate the change in advance and apply it to new invoices only. Give clients 30-60 days notice before changing terms.

What does 'CIA' mean on an invoice?

CIA stands for Cash in Advance — payment is required before work begins or goods are shipped. Common for high-risk orders or new client relationships.

Should I offer discounts for early payment?

If cash flow is a priority, yes. The cost of a 2% discount is small compared to waiting 60+ days for payment.

Invoice Payment Terms Explained

Payment terms define when and how a client should pay your invoice. Understanding terms like Net 30, EOM, and early payment discounts helps you set expectations, maintain cash flow, and handle late payments professionally. You can find the exact payment deadline for any terms with our calculator.