Estimates

Converting an Estimate to an Invoice

Turn an approved estimate into an invoice with a single click

Converting an Estimate to an Invoice

Once a client approves your estimate, the next step is billing. Buildero lets you convert an approved estimate directly into an invoice so you don't have to re-enter any line items.

When Can You Convert?

You can convert an estimate to an invoice when its status is:

  • Approved — client accepted the estimate (either via the portal or you marked it approved after a verbal confirmation)
  • Sent — you can also convert a sent estimate if you want to proceed before formal approval

Estimates with Draft or Declined status cannot be converted until the status is updated.

Step 1: Open the Estimate

Go to Estimates in the sidebar and click on the estimate you want to convert. You can also find it under the project's Estimates tab.

Step 2: Convert to Invoice

Click the Convert to Invoice button at the top of the estimate detail page.

A preview of the new invoice will appear with all line items, totals, and client details already filled in from the estimate.

Step 3: Review and Adjust

Before finalizing, you can:

  • Edit any line item descriptions, quantities, or prices
  • Change the Invoice Date and Due Date
  • Add or remove line items for work that changed since the estimate
  • Update the Notes field with payment instructions

This is useful for change orders — add extra line items to capture scope that was added after the original estimate was approved.

Step 4: Send the Invoice

Click Send Invoice when ready. Your client receives the invoice via email with a link to pay online.

What Happens to the Estimate?

After conversion, the estimate is linked to the new invoice. On the estimate detail page you'll see a badge showing Invoice Created with a link to the invoice. The estimate itself is not changed or deleted.

Partial Billing

If you're billing in stages (e.g., 50% deposit, 50% on completion), you can convert the estimate multiple times. Each time, adjust the line items and amounts to reflect only the portion being billed in that installment.