The 10 Best Invoicing Apps for Freelancers in 2025: Get Paid Faster
For freelancers and independent contractors across the US and UK, chasing payments can be a major drain on time and energy. Efficient invoicing isn’t just about getting paid; it’s about professionalism, cash flow, and maintaining healthy client relationships. In the fast-paced world of freelance work, the right digital tools are essential. Having a robust invoicing and payment system can mean the difference between prompt payment and frustrating delays.
But with so many options available, choosing the best invoicing apps for freelancers can feel overwhelming. From simple invoice generators to comprehensive accounting suites, how do you find the platform that truly fits your needs? We’ve analyzed the market to bring you the top 10 solutions for 2025, focusing on ease of use, features, pricing, and how effectively they help you get paid faster.
This guide cuts through the noise, providing clear insights into the tools that empower freelancers to manage their finances like a pro. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting, streamlining your invoicing process is crucial for sustainable success.
Last Updated: October 26, 2024
Why Investing in the Right Invoicing App Matters
Before diving into the apps, let’s clarify why this is a non-negotiable investment for your freelance career. Effective invoicing software does more than just send a bill. It impacts your business in several key areas:
- Improved Cash Flow: Professional invoices and streamlined payment options encourage clients to pay on time.
- Time Savings: Automate repetitive tasks like invoice creation, sending reminders, and tracking payments.
- Enhanced Professionalism: Customisable, branded invoices build credibility and trust with clients.
- Better Organization: Keep track of income, expenses, client data, and payment history all in one place.
- Simplified Tax Prep: Easily generate reports needed for tax filings, reducing stress during tax season.
The best apps offer features tailored to the unique needs of freelancers, like tracking billable hours, managing expenses, and accepting various payment methods.
Key Features to Look For in Freelancer Invoicing Apps
Not all invoicing apps are created equal. Consider these critical features when making your selection:
- Ease of Use: Intuitive interface requiring minimal learning curve.
- Customisation: Ability to add your logo, branding, and custom fields.
- Payment Options: Support for various payment methods (Credit/Debit Cards, ACH, Bank Transfers, PayPal).
- Mobile Access: Ability to create, send, and track invoices on the go.
- Time Tracking: Built-in or integrated time tracking for project-based work.
- Expense Tracking: Tools to log business expenses for better financial overview.
- Client Management: Storing client contact details and invoicing history.
- Reporting: Generating financial reports (income, expenses, outstanding payments).
- Recurring Invoices: Automating invoices for retainers or ongoing projects.
- Integrations: Connecting with other tools like CRMs, accounting software, or payment gateways.
- Pricing: Transparent pricing structures that fit your freelance budget. Free plans are often available but may have limitations.
Understanding these features helps you evaluate which of the best invoicing apps for freelancers aligns best with your workflow.
Top 10 Invoicing & Payment Apps for Freelancers in 2025
Here’s our curated list of the top invoicing and payment solutions, designed to help US/UK freelancers get paid efficiently.
1. QuickBooks Self-Employed
Overview: A powerful, dedicated solution for freelancers, offering robust invoicing, expense tracking, and tax estimation features. It helps separate business and personal finances seamlessly.
Key Features: Custom invoices, unlimited invoicing, payment acceptance (via QuickBooks Payments), mileage tracking, estimated quarterly tax calculation, bank/card connection.
Pricing: Paid subscription model, often with introductory offers. Starts around $15/month.
Best For: Freelancers needing integrated expense tracking and tax tools alongside invoicing.
2. FreshBooks
Overview: Known for its user-friendly interface and strong focus on service-based businesses. FreshBooks excels at creating professional invoices and managing client communication.
Key Features: Highly customisable invoices, time tracking, expense management, project management features, online payments (via integration), client retainers.
Pricing: Offers tiered paid plans based on client numbers. A Lite plan starts around $17/month (billed annually).
Best For: Service-based freelancers (designers, consultants, writers) who value ease of use and professional presentation.
3. Wave Accounting
Overview: Wave offers free accounting, invoicing, and receipt scanning. They make money through payment processing fees and payroll services, making their core invoicing tools incredibly accessible.
Key Features: Unlimited customizable invoices, unlimited income/expense tracking, receipt scanning, bank connections, online payments (transaction fees apply).
Pricing: Free for invoicing and accounting. Payment processing fees typically 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction (US rates).
Best For: Freelancers and small businesses on a tight budget who need essential accounting and invoicing features without a monthly fee.
4. Zoho Invoice
Overview: Part of the larger Zoho ecosystem, Zoho Invoice is a robust and feature-rich platform. It offers a generous free plan suitable for many freelancers.
Key Features: Professional templates, client portal, time tracking, expense tracking, customisation, multi-currency support, online payments, automated workflows, client self-service portal.
Pricing: Free plan available for single-user businesses. Paid plans offer more features and users, starting affordably.
Best For: Freelancers looking for a powerful, free solution with advanced features like client portals and workflow automation.
5. PayPal Invoicing
Overview: If you already use PayPal for transactions, their invoicing feature is a natural extension. It’s simple, quick, and leverages your existing PayPal account.
Key Features: Easy invoice creation, mobile app access, payment processing via PayPal balance or cards, customizable templates, recurring invoices.
Pricing: Free to create and send invoices. PayPal transaction fees apply when paid (e.g., 2.9% + $0.30 for online card payments in the US).
Best For: Freelancers already heavily using PayPal who need a basic, integrated invoicing solution.
6. Square Invoices
Overview: Square is well-known for its point-of-sale systems, but its invoicing tool is equally effective for freelancers, especially those accepting card payments.
Key Features: Free invoicing, customisable templates, recurring invoices, automatic payment reminders, team management, online payments via card or bank transfer.
Pricing: Free to send invoices. Fees apply for processing payments (e.g., 2.9% + $0.30 for card-present transactions, 3.5% + $0.30 for Card-Not-Present/Invoices in the US).
Best For: Freelancers who also need physical payment processing or want a simple, free invoicing tool linked to a payment platform.
7. Bonsai
Overview: Bonsai offers an all-in-one platform designed specifically for the freelance workflow, including proposals, contracts, time tracking, invoicing, and client management.
Key Features: All-in-one contract and invoicing, time tracking, project proposals, client management, proposal software, payment integrations (Stripe, PayPal).
Pricing: Offers several paid plans, often starting around $10-$20/month, depending on the features needed.
Best For: Freelancers seeking a comprehensive suite of tools beyond just invoicing, focusing on contract management and proposals.
8. Invoice Ninja
Overview: Invoice Ninja provides a robust, open-source option with a focus on simplicity and security. It offers a free plan with good core features.
Key Features: Highly customisable invoices, client area, time tracking, project management, multiple payment gateway integrations, custom domains (paid plans).
Pricing: Generous free plan available. Paid plans start affordably for advanced features and multiple users.
Best For: Tech-savvy freelancers who appreciate open-source software or need extensive customisation and payment gateway options.
9. Xero
Overview: Xero is a comprehensive cloud accounting software popular with small businesses globally. Its invoicing capabilities are integrated within its broader accounting features.
Key Features: Professional invoices, online payment integration, automated invoice reminders, recurring invoices, bank reconciliation, inventory management, robust reporting.
Pricing: Paid subscription model, typically starting around $13-$25/month depending on the plan selected.
Best For: Freelancers who need full accounting capabilities alongside professional invoicing, especially those planning to scale.
10. GoDaddy Bookkeeping
Overview: Previously known as Outright, GoDaddy Bookkeeping simplifies bookkeeping and invoicing for freelancers and small businesses. It integrates well with platforms like Etsy and eBay.
Key Features: Simple invoice creation, expense tracking, income management, basic reporting, links to GoDaddy services.
Pricing: Paid subscription, with plans starting around $9.99/month.
Best For: Freelancers using e-commerce platforms or those looking for straightforward bookkeeping bundled with invoicing.
Comparing the Best Invoicing Apps for Freelancers
Choosing the right tool depends heavily on your specific needs. Here’s a quick comparison table:
| App Name | Best For | Free Plan? | Est. Monthly Cost (Paid) | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| QuickBooks SE | Tax Prep & Expense Tracking | No | ~$15 | Integrated Tax Features |
| FreshBooks | Service-Based Freelancers | No (Free Trial) | ~$17 | Ease of Use & Customization |
| Wave | Budget-Conscious Freelancers | Yes (Core Features) | Free (Fees for Payments) | Free Core Accounting/Invoicing |
| Zoho Invoice | Feature-Rich Free Option | Yes | Starts low ($0 for free plan) | Client Portal & Automation |
| PayPal Invoicing | Existing PayPal Users | Yes | Free (Fees for Payments) | Simple PayPal Integration |
| Square Invoices | Retail/Service Hybrid | Yes | Free (Fees for Payments) | Simple Payment Processing Link |
| Bonsai | All-in-One Freelance Suite | No (Free Trial) | ~$10-20 | Contracts & Proposals |
| Invoice Ninja | Customisation & Open Source | Yes | Starts low ($0 for free plan) | Flexibility & Integrations |
| Xero | Full Accounting Needs | No (Free Trial) | ~$13-25 | Comprehensive Accounting |
| GoDaddy Bookkeeping | E-commerce Integration | No (Free Trial) | ~$10 | Simple Bookkeeping |
Tips for Effective Freelance Invoicing
Beyond choosing the right app, follow these best practices:
- Invoice Promptly: Send invoices as soon as work is completed or according to your contract terms.
- Be Clear and Concise: Include your name/business name, client details, invoice number, date, services rendered, amount due, payment terms, and due date.
- Set Clear Payment Terms: Specify your payment methods and deadlines (e.g., “Net 15,” “Due upon receipt”).
- Offer Multiple Payment Options: Make it easy for clients to pay via bank transfer, credit card, or PayPal.
- Follow Up Politely: Send gentle reminders before the due date and follow up promptly if payment is late. Many apps automate this.
- Keep Records: Maintain a digital trail of all invoices sent and payments received for your records and tax purposes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best free invoicing app for freelancers?
Wave and Zoho Invoice offer the most robust free plans. Wave provides free accounting and invoicing, while Zoho Invoice offers a feature-rich free tier with capabilities like client portals and multi-currency support.
Can I send invoices internationally as a freelancer?
Yes, many apps like Zoho Invoice, FreshBooks, and Xero support multiple currencies and international payments, making it easier to bill clients outside your home country (US/UK).
How do invoicing apps help freelancers get paid faster?
They streamline the process by allowing quick invoice creation, offering clients easy online payment options (cards, ACH), automating payment reminders, and providing a professional appearance that encourages timely payment.
Should I use an app that also handles accounting?
It’s highly beneficial. Apps like QuickBooks Self-Employed, Wave, and Xero combine invoicing with expense tracking and accounting reports, giving you a clearer overall picture of your freelance business finances.
What are the typical payment processing fees for freelancers?
Fees vary but commonly range from 2.5% to 3.5% plus a small flat fee (e.g., $0.30) for credit/debit card transactions. ACH or bank transfers often have lower or no fees. Always check the specific provider’s rates.
Conclusion: Streamline Your Success
Selecting the best invoicing apps for freelancers is a strategic move that impacts your bottom line and overall business health. By leveraging these tools, you can automate administrative tasks, maintain a professional image, and, most importantly, ensure you get paid for your valuable work in a timely manner.
Whether you choose a free solution like Wave or Zoho Invoice, a comprehensive accounting suite like QuickBooks or Xero, or a specialized platform like Bonsai, the key is to find a tool that fits your workflow and budget.
FreelanceFin’s Opinion: Don’t let invoicing headaches slow you down. Investing a small amount in the right app pays dividends in saved time and improved cash flow. Which invoicing app has made the biggest difference in your freelance career? Share your experiences in the comments below!
Actionable Next Step: Explore the free trials or plans of the apps that seem most relevant to your freelance business. Start streamlining your invoicing today!
References and Further Reading
- Indeed : Freelance Invoicing Tips: How to Invoice Clients
- Freelancers Union : Get Paid Faster: Invoicing Tips for Freelancers
- GOV.UK : Invoicing and receipts: the basics
- IRS : Estimated Taxes for Individuals
- Forbes Advisor : Best Invoicing Software For Small Business
- PCMag : The Best Accounting Software for 2024
- TechRadar : FreshBooks Review
- Entrepreneur : How to Choose the Right Accounting Software
