Which term refers to a document that reduces what a customer owes?

A credit note is a document issued by a seller to a buyer that formally reduces the amount the buyer owes from a previous invoice. It serves as a correction for any discrepancies such as returned goods, overbilling, or discounts that were not applied. The primary function of a credit note is to acknowledge that the customer is entitled to a reduction in the amount due, thereby facilitating a more accurate financial exchange.

In contrast, an invoice is a request for payment that indicates the amount a customer owes for goods or services rendered, while a sales order is an agreement between a buyer and seller detailing the sale but does not impact the customer's balance due. A payment receipt, on the other hand, confirms that a payment has been made but does not specifically address adjustments to the amount owed.