An estimate tells a customer roughly what a job will cost before you start. Use this free estimate maker to list the work, add tax and a deposit, set a valid-until date and download it as a PDF or Word file. There is no account to create.
What it is
An estimate is a document that sets out the work you plan to do and what you expect it to cost. It is usually a best guess based on what you know today, so the final price can change if the job changes. A quote is different: it is a fixed price you commit to. Many customers compare estimates before they hire anyone, so a clear one helps you win the job as well as avoid disputes. Think of this page as an estimate generator and estimate template in one: fill in the form and the document builds itself.
What to include
- Your business name and contact details, and your license number if your trade needs one.
- The customer's name and the job address.
- A plain description of the work.
- Itemised labor, materials and other costs.
- Tax, if you charge it, and any discount.
- The total, and any deposit you ask for.
- How long the estimate is valid.
- What is included and what is not.
- An estimated start and duration.
- A place for the customer to accept.
How to fill it in
- Add your business details, and a logo if you have one.
- Add the customer and the job address.
- Give the job a short title and describe the work.
- Add the line items. Start from the common items list and mark each one as labor, materials or other.
- Add tax and any discount.
- Set the valid-until date, and a deposit if you want one.
- Say what is included and what is not.
- Check the preview, download the file and send it to the customer.
Common mistakes
- Lumping everything into one price.
- Forgetting to say what is not included.
- Leaving off a valid-until date, so an old price could be held against you months later.
- Calling an estimate a quote, or the other way round.
- Not saying the price can change if the work changes.
- Forgetting tax or a deposit you meant to charge.
- Giving the customer no clear way to accept.
Need something else?
Common questions about the numbers
The discount comes off the subtotal first. Tax is then worked out on the taxable items after the discount. The deposit is a share of the total, and the balance is what is left.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an estimate and a quote?
An estimate is a best guess of the price, and it can change if the job changes. A quote is a fixed price you commit to, usually for a set time. If you want to give a fixed price, use a quote. Use the quote generator.
What should an estimate include?
Your details, the customer's details, a description of the work, itemised costs, tax, the total, how long the figures are valid, and what is included and not included.
Can a customer hold me to an estimate?
It depends on where you live and how the estimate is worded. Some places limit how far a final bill can go above an estimate, especially for certain trades. Check your local rules, and say clearly that the price can change if the work changes.
Should I ask for a deposit?
Many tradespeople do, especially when they have to buy materials first. If you do, say how much and when it is due. Some places limit deposits, so check local rules.
How long should an estimate be valid?
Many people use 14 to 30 days, because material prices can change. Choose what fits your trade and write the date on the estimate.
Is an estimate the same as an invoice?
No. An estimate says what you expect to charge before the work. An invoice asks for payment during or after it.
Do I need to sign up?
No. Fill it in, download it and send it.
Can I add my logo?
Yes. The logo stays on your device.
Last reviewed October 5, 2026
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This page gives general information and a template. It is not legal or tax advice.
Quicklet provides general document templates, not legal advice. Laws vary by location.