Over the years I have mostly sent
out contracts to clients.

In the last few years, I have had clients
ask for invoices. Is this an new trend, or is it something that I have just discovered.

Any preference of the two.(Contracts versus
Invoices)

Harris

A contract is a must in my opinion as it protects both you and the client. However in my experience an invoice is also a must, acting as reciept for you and the client's records come tax time. Especially if it is a business or an organiztion that has hired you, most will require an invoice. Also you will have to claim income that you are paid with by a check or by cash with a reciept, because you can count on the fact that they sure are.

Does this help?

P.