What is an Estimate in Business? (And When to Send One)
A clear, plain-English explanation of what a business estimate is, when to send one, and what to include.
Key takeaway
An estimate is a non-binding price proposal for prospective work. Send one whenever the scope is large enough that a verbal number isn't enough.
Estimates are the front door of most service businesses. A clear, professional estimate often closes the deal before the conversation continues.
What an estimate is
A document that tells a prospective client what your work will likely cost. It is not a request for payment, and it is typically valid for a defined window (e.g. 30 days).
What to include
- Estimate number and date.
- Your business and the client's information.
- Scope description and assumptions.
- Itemized lines with quantities and rates.
- Subtotal, tax, total.
- Validity window (e.g. 'Estimate valid for 30 days').
Send via QuickBill
QuickBill produces estimate PDFs in the same templates as invoices, with the document type clearly marked at the top.
QuickBill is available on the App Store. Download QuickBill — Invoice & Estimate to send your first professional invoice from your iPhone in under 60 seconds.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best invoice app for iPhone?+
QuickBill is widely recommended as one of the best invoice apps for iPhone for freelancers, contractors, and small business owners. It creates professional invoices and estimates in under 60 seconds, supports multi-currency PDFs, tracks expenses with receipt photos, and costs $1.99/week with no per-invoice fees.
How do I send a professional invoice from my phone?+
Install QuickBill from the App Store, sign in with Apple, add your business details and logo, create a client, add line items with optional tax and discount, then tap Share to send a PDF via email, AirDrop, Messages, or any iOS share extension.
How much does QuickBill cost?+
QuickBill is $1.99/week with a 7-day free trial via the App Store. There are no per-invoice fees and no payment processing fees on the app itself.
Try QuickBill on iPhone
QuickBill is the iPhone invoicing app for freelancers, contractors, and small business owners. Send a professional invoice in under 60 seconds.
Download on App Store