For a while now, Xero has offered two distinct versions of its invoicing feature: the classic invoicing system and the newer iteration.
The latter, built on cutting-edge technology, boasts a suite of time-saving tools engineered to streamline invoice customization and payment processing, making the invoicing process smoother and more efficient for users.
Looking ahead, Xero’s teams are committed to enhancing the new version of invoicing even further, integrating features that align closely with the needs and preferences of its valued users. To achieve this goal effectively, Xero’s focus must shift towards optimizing and expanding the capabilities of the new invoicing platform, rather than allocating resources to maintaining the outdated classic version. This strategic shift ensures that Xero can deliver ongoing innovation and value to its users, empowering them to manage their invoicing tasks with greater ease and efficiency.
It’s really easy to make the switch. Just click the ‘switch to new version’ button in classic invoicing. All your settings and invoice templates will carry over to the new version.
Keeping some favourite classic features
Xero encourages you to make the switch to the new version now, as that’s where all the latest value and new features will reside.
However, Xero understands that there are many features in classic invoicing that are important to you. That’s why Xero has integrated them into the new version. Here are some of our favorites:
- Copy information to a new invoice to save time when generating invoices for your customers.
- Add previously invoiced items to your invoice with just one click.
- Select products and services to add to your invoice directly from the invoice screen, and you can also add new items on the spot.
- Utilize keyboard shortcuts to easily add dates, make calculations, and navigate through invoice creation.
- Record payments on an invoice, including applying any available customer credit.
Furthermore, here are just some of the features that will be introduced in the new invoicing before the classic version is retired:
- Attach files from Xero’s file library to your invoice.
- Copy information from invoices to other documents such as quotes.
- Record overpayments against invoices to apply credit to future invoices.
- Access detailed history and notes, including invoice number, contact email, and amount, to maintain an audit trail of changes made, when, and by whom.
- Address invoices to a contact group, generating identical invoices for all members of the contact group automatically.
- Set a currency exchange rate for your invoice, using the XE.com rate, an organization-defined rate, or by adding a rate directly to the invoice.
- View tax rates and breakdowns in the invoice creation screen for those with multi-jurisdictional tax requirements.
Additionally, you will still be able to create and view repeating invoices after 2 September, as this feature is not affected by the retirement. Your invoices will appear as usual in the current repeating invoices experience.
An easier, faster way to invoice with new functionality
The new version of invoicing boasts a modern interface meticulously designed to enhance your productivity, offering a plethora of exciting features. Here’s a glimpse into the functionality you can experience on the new version today:
- Customize your invoice creation experience by displaying or concealing the fields that are most relevant to you.
- Never fret about losing your progress—your invoice is automatically saved as a draft from the moment you begin.
- Accurate previews enable you to visualize how your invoice will appear online or as a PDF, ensuring satisfaction with the final result before dispatching it.
- With just one click, ‘Approve & email’ your invoice, transitioning seamlessly from creation to sending in mere seconds.
- Provide your customers with a seamless checkout experience featuring fewer steps. Utilizing Stripe Link, credit card details can be securely stored and reused for expedited and smoother payments in the future.
- Access exclusive new workflows such as e-invoicing, and for users in the US, a cutting-edge automatic sales tax solution powered by Avalara.
And this is merely the outset of what’s in store. Looking ahead to the invoicing advancements planned for this year, anticipate:
- Enhanced flexibility in invoice customization tools and templates, facilitating a personalized touch to your invoices.
- Introduction of new payment methods to offer your customers more avenues to settle their payments.
- Simplified management of your payment methods directly from your invoice, ensuring you maintain complete control over your financial transactions.
With Xero’s commitment to continuous innovation, the evolution of invoicing promises to empower you with greater efficiency, convenience, and control over your financial operations.
How to switch and unlock exclusive tools
Xero hopes you’re as thrilled as we are about the future of Xero invoicing. We understand that this transition may seem significant and could take some time to acclimate to, particularly when certain tasks need to be completed in a different manner than what you’re accustomed to.
To facilitate a smooth transition, we’re providing ample time for you to make the switch. Additionally, we’ll be sharing support articles in Xero Central, along with how-to videos and other resources designed to assist you along the way. As always, we’re eager to hear your Xero Product Ideas for future development, and our team is here to lend a hand whenever you need it.
