Direct payment invoice guide for carers
If you provide care funded through direct payments or personal budgets, getting your invoicing right is important. This guide explains what to include, how to format your invoices and when to send them.
How direct payments work
When someone is assessed by their local council as needing care, they may be offered a direct payment. This is money paid to the person (or their representative) so they can arrange their own care instead of receiving council-arranged services.
The person receiving the direct payment becomes your client. They (or their managed account provider) pay you directly for the care you provide. You need to invoice them clearly and professionally.
Some direct payments are managed by a third-party organisation on behalf of the client. In these cases, you may need to submit your invoices to the managed account provider rather than the client directly.
What your invoice should include
Your full name and business name
Your contact details
Client name and reference number
Invoice number (unique, sequential)
Invoice date and payment due date
Dates of care provided
Hours worked each day
Hourly rate
Total amount due
Bank details for payment
Any additional charges (bank holidays, unsocial hours)
Brief description of services provided
Tips for direct payment invoicing
Agree your rate and invoicing frequency before you start work. Put it in writing so both parties are clear.
Send invoices promptly and consistently. Late invoicing can cause cash flow problems and confusion.
Keep copies of all invoices and payment records. You may need them for tax returns or if the council audits the direct payment.
If you work different rates for different times (evenings, weekends, bank holidays), list each rate as a separate line item.
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