FAQ: How do GP locums invoice for their work?

Watch our video to see how to create an invoice on LocumDeck.

Invoices are important legal documents as they are the record of the payment trail needed by both you and the practice for your respective accounts and tax records.

GP locum invoice essentials

Legally they must include certain information:

• A unique identification number.
• Your name, address and contact information.
• The name and address of the customer you’re invoicing.
• A clear description of what you’re charging for.
• Any expenses you are claiming (e.g. travel costs).
• The dates of work.
• The date of the invoice.
• The amount(s) being charged.
• The total amount owed.

Other important invoice information:

• Your preferred payment method.
• Payment due date.
• Payment reference to help you track that payment has gone into your bank account.
• Employer’s contribution.

To get paid you need to generate and send invoices. If you’re pensioning your GP locum income in the NHS pension scheme (NHSPS), you’ll need to send an accompanying GP Locum A pension form for the practice to complete, certifying that you were paid for doing eligible NHS work.

In England & Wales, your invoice and GP Locum A pension form will need to include a charge to the practice for the employer contribution to your pension.

You’re also going to need a system for keeping track of when you’re paid. And, if you’re pensioning your GP locum earnings in the NHSPS, you’re going to need to set aside some time at the end of every month to assemble all your pension forms, work out what pension contribution you need to pay, and send your payment and paperwork to your relevant pension administrator. Building a routine is key.