# Invoice number template

Configure receivable invoice number templates in Settings.

Configure how **new receivable invoice numbers** are generated: a template with placeholders, a live **preview**, and per-prefix sequence counters. Saving the template can **renumber open drafts** to match the new pattern; issued invoices keep their numbers.

**Who this is for:** AR admins who want consistent numbering (year, customer number, sequence) across drafts and new issues.

Related: [Accounts receivable](https://help.cortena.ai/guides/advanced/accounts-receivable).

## 1. Open Invoice numbers

1. Go to **Settings → Receivables**.
2. At the top of the tab, open **Invoice numbers**.
3. You need permission to create or edit receivables to save changes.

## 2. Template placeholders and preview

Build a template from clickable placeholders:

| Placeholder | Inserts |
| --- | --- |
| `{YYYY}` | Four-digit year |
| `{YYYYMM}` | Year + month |
| `{CUSTOMER_NUMBER}` | Customer number from master |
| `{SEQUENCE}` | Next sequence for the resolved prefix |

Example template: `RE-{YYYYMM}-{SEQUENCE}` → preview might show `RE-202609-00042`.

Edit the template string or insert chips; the **Example preview** updates immediately.

## 3. Save and draft renumbering

When you **Save**:

- Cortena stores the template and continues sequence counters **per resolved prefix** (the static part of the pattern).
- **Open drafts** may be renumbered to align with the new template (confirm in the save dialog when shown).
- **Issued or paid** invoices **keep** their existing numbers.

New receivables (manual compose, subscription bill, forward from payable) pick up the current template on creation.

## Tips and limitations

- Sequences do not reuse numbers from deleted drafts in a way that breaks audit. Follow on-screen messaging when renumbering.
- `{CUSTOMER_NUMBER}` requires a customer number on the receivable customer.
- Multi-entity: configure per tenant; child entities do not inherit numbering templates from the parent automatically.

## Quick reference

| Task | Where |
| --- | --- |
| Edit template | **Settings → Receivables → Invoice numbers** |
| Preview | Same panel → **Example preview** |
| Apply to drafts | **Save** template (renumber drafts when prompted) |
| Issued numbers | Unchanged after issue |