Estimate
A general estimate for service businesses and makers when the final price can change as work proceeds. It gives the customer a clear expected total, says how much the final bill may vary without new approval, and leaves room for the customer to approve so you can start.
- Fields
- 67
- Pages
- 2
- Paper
- Letter
Fill it online without an account. The blank PDF is free to download and works in any PDF reader. Downloading a filled copy from the editor needs a free account — 3 downloads a month, no watermark. See plans
Reviewed
Before you start
What you need to fill it in
- The customer's contact details
- A description of the job as you understand it
- Your expected labor, materials and other costs as line items
- How long the estimate stays valid
- The variance you allow before asking for re-approval (for example 10%)
What's inside
67 fields, ready to fill
- 49Typed answersnames, addresses, descriptions
- 3Dateschecked as real dates
- 14Calculatedfill themselves from other fields
- 1Signaturessignature and initials
5 required — the editor counts down how many are left while you fill.
Instructions
How to fill out the Estimate
- 1
Describe the job
Write what you will do and the assumptions behind the price, such as "Assumes existing wiring is to code".
- 2
Add line items
List the expected work and materials with quantities and unit prices.
- 3
Set tax and validity
Enter the tax rate if applicable and the date the estimate expires.
- 4
State the variance
Enter the percentage the final price may exceed the estimate without new approval. The maximum is calculated so the customer sees a real number.
- 5
Send for approval
Send the estimate with Request signatures, or print it, so the customer signs before you start.
Fill it online
What filling it looks like
- Edit & fill, Invite to sign and Create form are three modes of the same editor
- Amounts are formula fields: they calculate as you type
- The field navigator counts what's left and jumps to the next field
Shown with our invoice template. Sample content; names are fictional.
Written for: General (US)
This is a general-purpose template. Check that its terms and fields match your situation and any rules that apply where you use it before you rely on it.
Written by PDFBetter and last reviewed October 15, 2026. Spotted a problem? Tell us.
Estimate: questions people ask
Is an estimate binding?
Generally no, but some states cap how far a final bill for certain services, such as auto repair, can exceed a written estimate without consent. Check your state's rules; this is not legal advice.
Why include a variance percentage?
It tells the customer up front how much the price could change, and gives you a clear point at which to stop and ask before continuing.
When should I use a quote instead?
Use the price quote or job quote when you can commit to a fixed price for a defined scope.
Can I convert the estimate to an invoice?
Yes. Copy the final quantities and prices into the invoice template and reference the estimate number.
Ready when you are
Fill the Estimate now — no account to start.