AvoFree Estimate Template (Free)
An estimate tells the client what the job will cost before they say yes, so it needs a scope in plain words, priced lines, an expiry date and a place to accept. This page has the general estimate (also called a quote) in the three formats people ask for: fillable PDF for the fastest fill, Word for a custom layout, Excel for totals that calculate. All three use the same one-page layout as our trade estimates.
Free, one page, US Letter. No email, no sign-up. If you estimate one trade mostly, the trade versions have the lines and terms that trade uses; this is the general one.
Same layout in other formats: Word (.docx) · Excel / Sheets (.xlsx)
The layout: header, bill-to block, line table, totals, terms. Same in every format; the format changes how you fill it.
How to use the PDF template
- Pick a format and downloadPDF to fill in a reader, .docx for Word or Google Docs, .xlsx for Excel or Google Sheets. All three links are on this page.
- Fill in your details onceBusiness, contact, license, your standard terms and deposit rule. Save it as your master.
- For each job: scope, lines, valid-until dateDescribe what is included and excluded, price each line, set the expiry (30 days is standard).
- Send as PDF, then convert to the invoiceExport or save as PDF. When the client accepts, the same lines become the invoice; keep them identical.
Where PDF is the right choice
Good
- Three formats, one layout
- Valid-until and acceptance line built in
- Matches our invoice templates line for line
Watch out
- PDF and Word totals are typed
- Excel needs a print check the first time
- A general template; trade versions are more specific
Word vs PDF vs Excel
| Word | Excel / Sheets | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Totals calculate | No | No | Yes |
| Edit the layout | Yes | No | Partly |
| Fill on a phone | Partly | Yes | Partly |
| Needs an account | No | No | Google or Excel |
| Sends as | Save as PDF | Download as PDF | |
| Best for | Custom look | Fastest, any device | Math and a log |
Fill it on your iPhone in a minute instead
Avo keeps your clients and your usual line items, so the next invoice is three taps. Your first three documents are free, full-quality PDF, no watermark. Premium from $59.99/year if you invoice often.
Scan the code with your iPhone camera to open Avo in the App Store, or email yourself the link.
Questions
Is an estimate the same as a quote?
An estimate is an approximation that can change with scope; a quote is a fixed price for a defined scope. The document is the same layout; the title and the terms line decide which it is. See the guide on quote vs estimate.
How long should an estimate be valid?
30 days is standard for trades, 14 days when material prices move quickly. The valid-until date on the template is what stops an old estimate being accepted months later.
Should I ask for a deposit on the estimate?
Yes for new clients and for jobs with materials: state the deposit on the estimate so it is agreed before work starts, then credit it on the invoice.
Which format should I use?
PDF if you want to fill it on a phone or laptop with nothing installed. Word if you want your logo and layout changes. Excel if you want the math done for you. All three are free.