Invoice Number
A unique invoice identifier used for matching, dispute tracking, and payment application; include prefix if part of a series.
A well-structured invoice reduces payment delays, supports accurate accounting, and creates a defensible record in disputes. Clear line items and remittance instructions speed matching to purchase orders and bank postings, while correct customer and account data prevent backup withholding or collections errors.
Multiple departments handle or act on Unitil invoices depending on organizational role and workflow.
Roles collaborate to ensure timely payment and an auditable trail for both internal controls and external reporting.
An accounts payable manager reviews incoming Unitil invoices for accuracy, routes approvals, and initiates payment. They confirm account numbers and tax treatment, resolve discrepancies with the billing contact, and retain archived invoices for audit and tax purposes.
A billing clerk creates and issues the Unitil invoice, updates billing rates, attaches supporting meter reads or adjustments, and ensures remittance instructions are correct. They maintain templates and electronic copies for month-end reconciliation and audit readiness.
A unique invoice identifier used for matching, dispute tracking, and payment application; include prefix if part of a series.
Clear start and end dates for services billed so customers can verify meter reads and consumption against charges.
Customer account number and service location address so payments are applied correctly to the intended account.
Separate energy, delivery, tax, and adjustment lines with unit pricing and quantities for transparent cost allocation.
Due date, accepted payment methods, late fee policy, and remittance instructions so payers know how and when to pay.
Billing contact name, phone or email, and instructions for filing disputes or requesting supporting documents.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Auto-numbering | Enable sequential invoice IDs for auditability |
| Conditional Fields | Show adjustments only when a nonzero value exists |
| Signer Authentication | Require email, SMS code, or stronger verification |
| Delivery Receipt | Record email delivery and open events |
Verify format, integrations, and security before sending invoices electronically.
Ensure your chosen platform supports required formats, audit trails, and any industry-specific compliance obligations.
Commonly Net 30, Net 45, or specified due date; late fees begin after this date.
Specify timeframe (often 30 days) for a customer to contest charges.
Payments to contractors reported with recipient copies by January 31.
Close monthly ledger entries within standard month-end timelines.
Record retention typically begins on invoice creation or payment date.
Generate invoice with full line items and unique ID.
Send by electronic method and record delivery confirmation.
Due date arrives; monitor incoming payments and apply remittance.
Match payment to invoice, resolve discrepancies, and archive.
Export a signed, tamper-evident PDF/A copy for archival. Include the audit certificate and embedded metadata for compliance and long-term storage.
Export line items and totals as CSV or XLSX for import into accounting systems and bulk reconciliation processes.
Save the original DOCX or template file with change history when available to support adjustments and template updates.
Download a bundle that includes the signed document, certificate of completion, timestamps, and signer authentication logs for dispute defense.
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day trial | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Envelope Cap | No cap | 100 envelopes/user/year | Varies | Varies | Varies |