How to Invoice Without GST in New Zealand 2025 Step-by-Step Guide
Not registered for GST? No problem. Here’s exactly how to invoice as a NZ sole trader, side hustler, or freelancer without GST—including what must be on your invoice, IRD rules, and a free NZ no-GST invoice template.
Who Needs This Guide?
- Sole traders, side hustlers, part-time freelancers not GST registered
- Anyone earning under $60,000/year from self-employment or contracting
- New businesses who haven't registered for GST
- Students, creatives, gig economy workers invoicing for the first time
Do I Need to Register for GST in NZ?
In New Zealand, you only need to register for GST if your turnover (income before expenses) is more than $60,000 per year OR if you choose to voluntarily. See IRD's guide for the full details.
- If you are not registered for GST, you must not charge GST on your invoices.
- You do not need to include a GST number on your invoices.
- If a client asks, simply say: "I'm not GST registered, so no GST is added."
What to Put on an Invoice Without GST
- Your name or business name and contact details
- Client’s name and contact details
- Date, invoice number, payment due date
- Description of work/services and amounts
- Do NOT include a GST line or GST number
- Your bank account for payment
- Optional: NZBN (if you have one), your logo
Sample No-GST NZ Invoice Template
Invoice
Invoice #1008
Bill To:
Acme Marketing Ltd
PO Box 12345, Wellington
Date: 31/05/2025
Due: 07/06/2025
Item
Qty × Rate
Total
Logo Design
1 × $450.00
$450.00
Business Card Design
1 × $100.00
$100.00
Subtotal$550.00
Total$550.00
Bank: ANZ
Account Name: Jane Smith Design
Account Number: 12-3456-0789123-00
If you have any questions regarding this invoice, please contact [email protected].
No GST charged – not GST registered
Free template by Ledgr – https://ledgr.co.nz
Common Mistakes to Avoid on No-GST NZ Invoices
- Listing a GST number or "GST" anywhere if you are not registered.
- Charging GST on your services when not registered.
- Leaving out key details (client, dates, payment info) required for IRD compliance.
- Not stating "No GST charged – not GST registered" (recommended to avoid confusion).
- Sending invoices in formats clients can’t open (PDF or online is best—Ledgr handles this for you).
How Ledgr Makes No-GST Invoicing Simple
- GST toggle – Turn GST on/off per invoice, so you never have to edit a template again.
- No confusion – Invoices automatically remove GST lines if you’re not registered.
- NZ-compliant – Always includes only what the IRD requires, never more.
- Mobile and desktop – Invoice from anywhere, even if you’re between gigs.
FAQs: Invoicing Without GST in NZ
Do I need to say "No GST charged" on my invoice?
Try Ledgr Free for Easy No-GST Invoicing
You don’t have to, but it helps avoid confusion for your client. It’s good practice to include a note: “No GST charged – not GST registered.”
Can I add GST if I'm not registered?
No, it is illegal to charge or collect GST if you’re not registered. Only registered businesses can add GST.
What if my client requests a GST number?
Just explain you are not GST registered, so you do not have a GST number.
Do I have to register for GST if my income is under $60k?
No, GST is only required over $60,000 turnover (unless you choose to register earlier).
Do I need special invoicing software for non-GST invoices?
No, but tools like Ledgr make it much easier to create compliant invoices without manual edits or mistakes.