Although work orders and invoices contain much of the same information, it’s important to keep these documents separate. The main reason you shouldn’t use work orders as invoices is to help you keep accurate records of a project’s progress.
By keeping work orders and invoices separate, you have specific documentation of a project’s timeline. Also, keep in mind that although you may create a work order based on a project’s original scope, you may have to include additional charges and account for complications on the invoice for financial purposes. This includes last-minute changes, additional resources, and going over estimated labor hours.