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14.7. Create or Clone an Invoice Layout
Create a new invoice layout, choose when to clone an existing layout, and save a safe draft before using it for client billing.
Create invoice layouts from Billing > Invoice Layouts. This page lists the layouts available to your tenant and shows whether each layout is standard or custom.
For most MSPs, the safest approach is to start from a standard layout or a known working custom layout, then make small changes and preview the result.
Create a new layout
- Go to Billing > Invoice Layouts.
- Click Create New Layout.
- Enter a clear name, such as GreenLeaf Managed Services Invoice Layout.
- Use the visual designer to add invoice components.
- Preview the layout with sample or existing invoice data.
- Save the template when it is ready.
Figure 1: A new invoice layout starts with a name, design workspace, and page setup controls.
When to clone instead of starting blank
Clone or copy an existing layout when you only need to adjust presentation. Starting from a blank layout is better when you want a completely new page structure.
| Situation | Recommended approach |
|---|---|
| Add your logo and payment instructions to the standard invoice | Clone a standard layout, then edit branding and footer text. |
| Create a special invoice for a large managed services client | Clone your normal layout, then add client-specific sections. |
| Build location-based billing presentation | Start from a standard detailed layout or a layout that already groups line items. |
| Redesign the invoice from scratch | Create a new blank layout and add only the components you need. |
Naming standards
Use names that explain how the layout should be used.
| Good name | Avoid |
|---|---|
| Default Managed Services Invoice | New Template |
| GreenLeaf Dental Monthly Services Invoice | Test Layout |
| Project Retainer Invoice Layout | Invoice Copy 2 Final |
| Location-Based Invoice Detail | Layout 7 |
If a layout is client-specific, include the client or agreement name. If it is a general tenant default, use a broad name like Default MSP Invoice Layout.
Before saving
Before saving a new layout, confirm:
- the layout has a meaningful name;
- the invoice number, customer name, issue date, due date, and total are present;
- line items are visible and readable;
- totals appear once and are easy to find;
- the logo or images fit the page;
- margins are suitable for PDF and print;
- preview renders successfully.
Do not assign a new layout as a default until billing staff have previewed it with realistic sample data or an existing draft invoice.