# Free Estimate Template

> List the items, add a contingency for unknowns and choose the range around the total. The estimate shows the total, the likely range, how long it stays valid and what is not included, with an acceptance line. This job is $9,460.00 before tax, likely $8,514.00 to $10,406.00.

Canonical: https://receiptscanner.co/tools/estimate-template
Updated: 2026-10-28 · Sources re-checked by: 2027-04-28

This is a free interactive calculator that runs in the browser. Nothing you type is stored or sent. Results are estimates.

## How it works

Items = quantity × price for each line. Contingency = items × the contingency percent, shown as its own line. Total before tax = items + contingency. Likely range = total before tax × (1 − range) to × (1 + range). Tax is charged only on the items you tick, at the rate you enter, and the contingency is not taxed, so tax = taxed items × the rate. Estimated total = total before tax + tax. An estimate is a good-faith approximation: it can change when the scope changes, so it says so in the notes and carries a validity period.

**Estimate, quote or invoice**

| Document | What it promises | Can the price change? |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Estimate | A good-faith approximation of the cost | Yes, if the scope changes or conditions are found |
| Quote | A fixed price for a defined scope | Only through a signed change order |
| Invoice | What is owed for work done | No, it bills the agreed price |

**Total before tax for different contingency and range settings (items of $8,600)**

| Contingency | Total before tax | Range at ±10% |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 0% | $8,600.00 | $7,740.00 to $9,460.00 |
| 5% | $9,030.00 | $8,127.00 to $9,933.00 |
| 10% | $9,460.00 | $8,514.00 to $10,406.00 |
| 15% | $9,890.00 | $8,901.00 to $10,879.00 |
| 20% | $10,320.00 | $9,288.00 to $11,352.00 |

## Worked example: a kitchen remodel estimate

1. Items: demolition $1,800.00 + cabinets $4,200.00 + installation 40 hours × $65 = $2,600.00. Together $8,600.00.
2. Contingency at 10%: $860.00. Total before tax: $9,460.00.
3. Likely range at ±10%: $8,514.00 to $10,406.00.
4. Tax at 7% on the cabinets only: $294.00.
5. Estimated total: $9,460.00 + $294.00 = $9,754.00.

## FAQ

### What is an estimate?
A written approximation of what a job will cost, given before the work starts. It is not a fixed price, and it should say what it covers, what it leaves out and how long it is good for.

### How is an estimate different from a quote?
An estimate can change if the scope or the conditions change. A quote is a fixed price for a defined scope. If you want a firm number, use the quote template.

### What is a contingency?
An allowance for things you cannot see yet, such as hidden damage behind a wall. Ten percent is common on remodels. It is shown as its own line so the client sees why it is there.

### Why show a range?
A range is honest about the uncertainty. It also protects you: a client who has seen a range of about ten percent either way is less surprised by a final price inside it.

### How long should an estimate be valid?
Material prices change, so many contractors say 30 days. The validity box prints the period on the estimate, and you can change the number of days.

### Should I get the estimate signed?
A signature is not required to give an estimate, but a signed acceptance helps show the client understood the scope and the limits. The acceptance line is on the page.

## Sources


This tool makes a document for your records and your clients. It is not tax or legal advice and it does not create an official e-invoice for any tax authority. Check the rules where you work.