Efficient invoicing is crucial for contractors juggling multiple projects and clients. The right invoicing software—like QuickBooks, FreshBooks, or Jobber—can streamline your billing process, saving time, reducing costly errors, and improving cash flow. With these tools, managing invoices becomes a hassle-free part of running your business.
Top 7 invoicing software for contractors
1. FreshBooks
Best for: Small- to medium-sized contractors who need a simple yet comprehensive invoicing solution with time tracking and expense management.
| What we love | Things to consider |
| – Easy-to-use interface with customizable invoices – Automated payment reminders that save time on follow-ups – Time-tracking features to monitor project hours – Integration with popular accounting tools for seamless bookkeeping | – Pricing can be higher for larger teams – Some advanced features may require upgrading to higher-tier plans |
Cost: Starting at $6.60/month (for the “Lite” plan).
FreshBooks is versatile invoicing software designed for small businesses and contractors. It simplifies financial management by offering automated billing, expense tracking, and project management features. Its intuitive interface ensures that even those who aren’t tech-savvy can easily create and manage invoices.
Key features:
- Customizable invoice templates
- Time tracking for projects
- Automated payment reminders
- Integration with accounting software
2. QuickBooks Online
Best for: Contractors seeking an all-in-one financial management solution with advanced invoicing, expense tracking, and reporting tools.
| What we love | Things to consider |
| – Comprehensive accounting solution with robust invoicing features – Expense tracking to manage costs efficiently – Detailed financial reporting capabilities for a complete overview of finances – Seamless integration with various banking services | – There is a learning curve for beginners – Some advanced features may feel overwhelming for small-scale contractors |
Cost: Starting at $17.50/month.
QuickBooks Online is a popular choice among contractors due to its all-in-one approach to financial management. It streamlines the invoicing process, tracks expenses, and offers a comprehensive suite of financial reports. With its integration capabilities, QuickBooks connects seamlessly with banking services, providing a clear snapshot of your business’s economic health.
Key Features:
- Automated invoice generation
- Mobile app for on-the-go invoicing
- Integration with bank accounts
- Detailed financial reports
3. Zoho Invoice
Best for: Small contractors looking for a free, user-friendly invoicing solution with essential customization features.
| What we love | Things to consider |
| – Free for small contractors – Offers comprehensive invoice customization – Supports multiple payment gateways | – Limited features compared to paid software – Advanced functions require integration with other Zoho products |
Cost: Free for up to 1,000 invoices per year.
Zoho Invoice is cost-effective for contractors needing basic yet powerful invoicing features. It supports multi-currency billing, recurring invoices, and time tracking. The free plan covers up to 1,000 invoices annually, but paid plans are available for businesses requiring more robust invoicing.
Key Features:
- Highly customizable invoices
- Recurring billing and automated reminders
- Multi-language and multi-currency support
- Integration with Zoho’s suite of products
4. Xero
Best for: Contractors needing a scalable solution that combines invoicing with advanced accounting features.
| What we love | Things to consider |
| – Comprehensive accounting tools alongside invoicing – Seamless integration with a wide range of third-party apps – Real-time financial tracking for accurate expense management – Multi-currency support for contractors with international clients | – The learning curve for those new to accounting software – Limited customer support for lower-tier plans |
Cost: Starting at $0.75/month (for the “Early” plan).
Xero is a full-featured accounting software with powerful invoicing capabilities. It’s ideal for contractors who want a more detailed financial picture, as it offers real-time expenses, income, and cash flow tracking. With its integration abilities, Xero connects to over 800 third-party apps, allowing you to customize your financial management toolkit.
Key Features:
- Automated invoice generation
- Real-time financial tracking
- Integration with 800+ third-party apps
- Multi-currency support
5. Jobber
Best for: Field service contractors (e.g., landscaping, plumbing) looking for an all-in-one business management and invoicing tool.
| What we love | Things to consider |
| – Tailored specifically for field service businesses – Offers scheduling, client management, and invoicing in one platform – Allows for quick invoice generation directly from job details – Features a user-friendly mobile app for on-the-go invoicing | – Higher pricing for advanced features – Not as comprehensive for non-field service contractors |
Cost: Starting at $21/month (for the “Core” plan).
Jobber is designed for field service contractors, offering an all-in-one solution for managing jobs, clients, and invoices. Its easy-to-use platform lets you generate invoices directly from job details to save time and reduce errors. The mobile app provides flexibility, enabling you to invoice clients on the go.
Key Features:
- Invoice generation from job details
- Scheduling and client management tools
- User-friendly mobile app
- Customizable invoice templates
6. Wave
Best for: Small contractors and freelancers looking for a free, user-friendly invoicing and accounting solution.
| What we love | Things to consider |
| – 100% free to use with no monthly fees – Easy-to-navigate interface, perfect for those new to invoicing software – Built-in accounting features for seamless financial management – Supports online payments and recurring billing | – Limited advanced features compared to paid options – Customer support is limited to email unless you purchase premium support – Charges do apply for online payment processing |
Cost: Starting at $0/month (for the “Starter” plan).
Wave provides a straightforward, no-cost invoicing solution for small contractors and freelancers. Despite being free, it offers a range of features, including online payments and recurring billing. Its built-in accounting tools make it easy to keep your finances in order from one place.
Key Features:
- Free invoicing with customizable templates
- Built-in accounting tools
- Supports online payments
- Recurring billing and automated reminders
7. Invoice2go
Best for: Contractors who need a simple, mobile-friendly invoicing solution with added features for estimates and receipts.
| What we love | Things to consider |
| – User-friendly mobile app for creating invoices on the go – Customizable invoice templates to fit your branding – Supports estimates, receipts, and expense tracking – Payment tracking to help manage cash flow | – Higher pricing tiers for advanced features – Limited accounting features compared to all-in-one solutions like QuickBooks |
Cost: Starting at $5.99/month.
Invoice2go offers an easy-to-use platform that is perfect for contractors who need a mobile-friendly invoicing solution. With its intuitive app, you can create invoices, estimates, and receipts directly from your smartphone, making it a convenient option for those constantly moving. It also includes features for tracking payments and expenses, helping you manage cash flow effectively.
Key Features:
- Customizable invoice templates
- Estimates, receipts, and expense tracking
- Mobile app for on-the-go invoicing
- Payment tracking and reminders
The perks of invoicing software for contractors
Using invoicing software offers a range of benefits tailored to contractors’ needs. Digital invoicing solutions can make managing your finances a breeze, from saving time to reducing errors.
Efficiency
Invoicing software automates the billing process, allowing contractors to focus on what they do best—managing projects and delivering quality work. It eliminates manual entry, automatically generating invoices from project details, time logs, and expenses. This automation speeds up the billing process and reduces the risk of errors, saving you hours that you can invest back into your business.
Cost savings
Switching to digital invoicing helps cut costs in more ways than one. Moving away from traditional paper invoices saves you money on printing, mailing, and storage supplies. Additionally, invoicing software streamlines payment processing, reducing administrative costs. Some platforms also offer free options, perfect for small contractors looking to keep expenses low.
Reduced environmental waste
Going digital isn’t just good for your wallet—it’s good for the environment. By reducing your reliance on paper invoices, envelopes, and stamps, you can significantly minimize your business’s carbon footprint. Invoicing software allows you to do all your billing and financial tracking online, supporting eco-friendly business practices that appeal to environmentally conscious clients.
Improved accuracy
Manual data entry leaves plenty of room for mistakes, from incorrect invoice amounts to misapplied payments. Automated invoicing software reduces the risk of human error by accurately pulling data from projects, timesheets, and expenses. This precision ensures that clients are billed correctly and makes your financial records more reliable for budgeting and tax purposes.
Increased cash flow
Digital invoicing means faster payments. Many invoicing software solutions come with integrated payment options, allowing clients to pay online with just a few clicks. Automated reminders can nudge clients to settle their invoices on time, helping to reduce late payments and improve your cash flow. This efficiency means you get paid quicker, keeping your business running smoothly.
What to consider when choosing invoicing software
Not all invoicing software is created equal, and the right choice depends on your business needs.
Customization
Your invoices are an extension of your brand. Look for software to personalize invoices with your logo, color scheme, and business details. Customization also includes the flexibility to set payment terms, add itemized costs, and include notes or terms specific to each client. The more you can tailor invoices to suit your business and clients, the more professional and clear your billing will be.
Integration
For a smooth financial management process, choose invoicing software that integrates seamlessly with other tools you use, such as accounting software, payment gateways, and project management systems. Integration means you can track income and expenses, manage client data, and keep your financial records updated in one place. This connectivity streamlines your workflow and reduces the need for manual data entry, saving time and reducing errors.
Security
Security is a top priority when handling sensitive client information and payment processing. Look for software with robust data security features, including encryption, secure servers, and compliance with industry standards like PCI-DSS for payment processing. The right software will protect your business and clients’ information, giving you peace of mind with every transaction.
Scalability
Your business is growing, and your invoicing software should be able to grow with you. Consider solutions that offer scalable features, allowing you to handle more clients, invoices, and advanced financial tracking as your business expands. Opting for software accommodating your growth means you won’t have to switch tools, saving time and the hassle of migrating data.
User interface
An easy-to-navigate user interface is a must, especially if you or your team members are new to invoicing software. The more intuitive the software, the quicker you can learn and use it effectively. Look for options with straightforward navigation, clear labeling, and helpful tutorials or customer support to reduce the learning curve. A user-friendly interface saves time and minimizes frustration, helping you stay on top of your billing.
Bottom line
Choosing the right invoicing software is crucial for contractors to streamline billing, manage cash flow, and reduce administrative headaches. The best software depends on your business needs, budget, and the specific features that align with your workflow. Whether you need simple invoicing, integrated accounting, or a full-service business management tool, there’s an option for you.
Take advantage of free trials and demos to explore different platforms and see which is the perfect fit for your business. With the right invoicing software, you can simplify your financial management, freeing up more time to focus on growing your contracting business.
