What to include in an estimate · United States

Country guidance is provided for reference. Check the official sources and the rules that apply to your business.

Content updated on · Quotisa

A scope your client can check

An estimate describes proposed work, pricing and terms. Requirements vary by state, trade and client. Check licenses and local consumer rules before sending.

Include business and client details, date, item descriptions, quantities, units, prices and applicable tax. A validity date and payment terms clarify the offer.

Adapt it to the trade

Contractors may need license and insurance details. Creative providers should define deliverables and usage rights. Start from a trade template and adjust every line to the actual job.

Fictional example · United States

These amounts and the selected tax illustrate the calculation. Check the rate for your situation before sending.

DescriptionQuantityUnitUnit priceAmount
Leak detection2project$150.00$300.00
Faucet replacement1item$50.00$50.00

Subtotal: $350.00

Sales tax 0%: $0.00

Total: $350.00

An estimate starts with the fault, the fixtures to replace and the pipe runs. Specify the number of fixtures, pipe material and testing after installation.

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