How to create Invoice numbering in InDesign?

I'm going to answer this question with a far simpler method, in case anyone is searching these forums in the future for this very problem. It's actually very simple to do sequential numbering on a straightforward, multi page document in InDesign. There are many reasons people don't want to use antoher third party software app for invoicing (cost, complication, etc). If you only have very simple invoicing needs, a running doc in InDesign is a good way to handle things, with the added bonus of being able to create a doc for each quarter or financial year as it suits your taxation needs.

1. Set up your text field on the master page for the invoice number you want automated.

2. Type > Insert Special Character > Markers > Current page number (it will insert a special "A" character).

3. Now go to your Paes palette and double click on the little black inverse triangle above your first document page (NOT the master page in the Master palette). This will give you access to the page numbering options for your document.

4. Check the box "Start Section", select the radio button for "Start Page Numbering at:" and start with the numerals only portion of your invoicing numbers (so for example, I'm up to invoice #000604 for I insert "604" here). Un der the Page Numbering section of this dialogue box insert Section Prefix with however many zeros you require prior to the invoice number. Check the box for "Include Prefix when Numbering Pages".

And that is it. Very simple way to keep sequential numbering over many documents and make sure you're not entering incorrect details into your invoices (double ups are bad news for your filing system!).

Why would you use InDesign for invoices? Word or Excel would be much better choice - but there is a lot of better tools - even free.