Best Contractor Invoicing Software Shortlist
Here’s my shortlist of the best contractor invoicing software:
If you’re the one handling contractor invoices, you know how many small things can derail the process. A manager forgets to approve a bill. The project total changes after the invoice is drafted. A client delays payment. Or worse, an invoice slips through the cracks entirely. Between approvals, change orders, and chasing payments without damaging relationships, contractor billing can quickly become messy.
Contractor invoicing software is designed to reduce those hiccups. Instead of relying on spreadsheets and email threads, these tools centralize approvals, track changes, automate reminders, and give you clear visibility into what’s been sent, paid, or overlooked. That means fewer missed invoices, faster approvals, and more predictable cash flow.
I’ve independently tested and reviewed the top invoicing software for contractors to identify which tools actually solve these day-to-day problems. In this article, you’ll find my top picks, with practical insights into features, pricing, and where each solution performs best, so you can choose a system that keeps billing accurate and payments moving.
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Best Contractor Invoicing Software Summary
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top contractor invoicing software selections to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for small businesses | Free plan + free demo available | From $0/month | Website | |
| 2 | Best for construction companies | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 3 | Best for accounts payable | Free demo available | From $49/user/month | Website | |
| 4 | Best for automated payments | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 5 | Best for online payments | 30-day free trial available | From 2.9% + 30¢ per transaction | Website | |
| 6 | Best for freelancers | Free plan available | From $14/month | Website | |
| 7 | Best for mobile invoicing | Free trial available | From $5.99/month | Website | |
| 8 | Best for job costing | Free trial + free demo available | From $99/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 9 | Best for contractors | 14-day free trial available | From $8/month | Website | |
| 10 | Best for project tracking | Free trial available | From $20/month | Website |
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Rippling Spend
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.8 -
LiveFlow
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.9 -
Float Financial
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.1
Best Contractor Invoicing Software Review
Below are my detailed summaries of the best contractor invoicing software that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer a detailed look at the key features, pros and cons, integrations, and ideal use cases of each tool to help you find the best one for you.
Zoho Invoice is an invoicing tool designed for small businesses. It helps with creating invoices, tracking expenses, and managing time.
Why I picked Zoho Invoice: This tool is ideal for small businesses needing a free user-friendly invoicing solution. It offers customizable invoice templates, making it easy to tailor invoices to your brand. The software's expense tracking and automated reminders help you stay organized and on top of payments. Its customer portal allows clients to access their invoices and make payments directly, enhancing your service.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include automated payment reminders, a customer portal for easy invoice access, and detailed reporting tools for financial insights. The platform also supports multiple currencies, making it suitable for international transactions for the same customer. You can produce custom invoices to align with your brand, adding a professional touch to your billing.
Integrations include Zoho CRM, Zoho Books, PayPal, Stripe, G Suite, Office 365, Slack, Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive, and more.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Customer portal access
- Automated payment reminders
- Customizable invoice templates
Cons:
- May need additional Zoho tools for full functionality
- Limited features
Procore is a construction management software designed for construction companies. It helps manage project documentation, financials, and communication across construction sites.
Why I picked Procore: It's perfect for construction companies and general contractors that need detailed project management and financial tracking. The tool allows you to manage project budgets and track expenses in real time. Its document management feature ensures all team members have access to the latest plans and updates. The ability to simplify communication between on-site and office teams is crucial for project success.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include a bidding tool that simplifies the bid management process. The software offers daily log tracking to help you keep a detailed record of daily activities and progress. You can also use the quality and safety tools to ensure compliance with industry standards.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Sage 300, Microsoft Project, Docusign, Smartsheet, Xero, Viewpoint Spectrum, and more.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Streamlined communication and document control
- Real-time financial tracking
- Extensive project management features
Cons:
- High initial setup cost for smaller businesses
- Slight learning curve for new users
BILL is an accounts payable and receivable software designed for small to mid-sized businesses. It automates financial operations, helping businesses manage invoices and payments efficiently.
Why I picked BILL: It's perfect for businesses that need integrated accounts payable processes. The software automates invoice capture and approval, reducing manual data entry and speeding up workflows. With its secure payment platform, you can send and receive payments electronically, enhancing efficiency. The tool also provides real-time insights into cash flow, helping you make informed financial decisions.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include automated reminders that ensure timely payments and reduce late fees. The software offers a thorough audit trail, providing transparency and accountability in financial transactions. It also supports global payments, allowing you to handle international transactions with ease.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, NetSuite (Oracle NetSuite), Sage Intacct, Microsoft Dynamics, FreshBooks, Tallie, and more.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Detailed audit trail
- Real-time cash flow insights and secure electronic payments
- Automated invoice capture
Cons:
- AP/AR features may require manual workarounds
- Pricing is expensive compared to some competitors
AvidXchange is an automated payment and accounts payable software designed for mid-sized businesses. It helps support invoice processing and automates payment functions to enhance financial operations.
Why I picked AvidXchange: It's ideal for businesses seeking to automate their payment processes. The platform offers automated invoice approval workflows, which reduce manual tasks and speed up processing. With its secure payment network, you can handle transactions confidently and efficiently. The software also provides real-time visibility into payment status, helping you manage cash flow better.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include customizable approval workflows that adapt to your business needs. You can access detailed audit trails, ensuring compliance and accountability in your financial operations. The software also supports electronic payments, which reduces the need for paper checks and strengthens transaction security.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Microsoft Dynamics, Sage Intacct, NetSuite (Oracle), Oracle (general), SAP, Viewpoint, MRI Software, Yardi, Acumatica, and more.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Customizable workflows with detailed audit trails
- Secure payment network and real-time visibility
- Automated invoice approval workflows
Cons:
- Requires consistent internet access with limited offline use
- Complex initial setup and training needed
Stripe offers invoicing and payment tools designed for contractors, freelancers, and service-based businesses that need a flexible way to bill clients and get paid online. Its invoicing features connect directly to Stripe’s payment infrastructure, allowing contractors to manage billing and payments in one place.
Why I picked Stripe: Stripe is a strong choice for contractors who want more control over how they invoice clients and accept payments. You can create and send professional invoices, accept credit cards and bank transfers, and automate reminders to reduce late payments. Stripe’s support for multiple currencies makes it especially useful for contractors working with international clients. Its built-in tax handling add-on feature and secure payment processing also help simplify compliance and reduce administrative overhead.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable invoices with line items, taxes, and discounts, as well as automatic payment reminders to help you get paid faster. Contractors can enable partial payments, recurring invoices for ongoing work, and saved payment methods for repeat clients. Stripe also provides detailed invoice tracking and payment status updates so you always know what’s been sent, viewed, and paid.
Integrations include Shopify, WooCommerce, QuickBooks, Xero, Salesforce, NetSuite, FreshBooks, Zoho Books, Squarespace, and more.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Automated payment reminders and invoice tracking
- Supports international clients and multiple currencies
- Flexible invoicing for one-time and recurring contractor work
Cons:
- Limited offline payment options
- Setup can feel technical for non-finance users
Invoice Ninja is an invoicing software designed for freelancers and SMBs. It helps manage invoices, track expenses, and handle payments efficiently.
Why I picked Invoice Ninja: It's tailored for freelancers and SMBs who need flexible invoicing without the financial burden. The tool offers customizable invoice templates that let you reflect your company logo and brand identity. Time-tracking features help you bill clients accurately, ensuring you're paid for every hour worked. Additionally, you can set up recurring invoices, which is a huge time-saver for regular clients.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include a built-in time tracker that lets you track billable hours directly on the platform. Expense tracking helps you monitor and categorize expenses easily. The client portal provides a space for clients to view invoices and make payments, supporting your professional image.
Integrations include Zapier, Stripe, PayPal, Authorize.Net, Braintree, WePay, Slack, MailChimp, and QuickBooks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Recurring invoice setup
- Built-in time tracking
- Customizable invoice templates
Cons:
- Requires integration for full functionality
- Limited phone support
Invoice2go is an invoicing app designed for freelancers and small businesses. It allows users to create invoices, track expenses, and manage payments on the go.
Why I picked Invoice2go: It's ideal for mobile invoicing, with an app that works well on smartphones. You can create and send invoices directly from your mobile device, making it easy to manage billing anywhere. The app also lets you track expenses in real time, helping you stay on top of your finances. With its user-friendly interface, you can quickly get started without a steep learning curve.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include customizable invoice templates that let you add your logo and phone number to personalize your invoices. The app offers expense tracking, allowing you to capture receipts and categorize expenses easily. You can also generate financial reports to gain insights into your business performance.
Integrations include PayPal, Stripe, Square, Zapier, QuickBooks, Xero, FreshBooks, and more.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Quick setup process
- User-friendly interface
- Easy mobile invoicing
Cons:
- Basic reporting capabilities
- Limited advanced features
Knowify is a project management and job costing software designed for contractors and small businesses. It helps manage bids, track project progress, and handle invoicing effectively.
Why I picked Knowify: It's ideal for contractors who need precise job costing and project management. The construction invoicing software enables you to create detailed bids and track costs against budgets in real time. You can also manage subcontractors and track their progress, ensuring projects stay on schedule. Its invoicing features are integrated with job costing, providing a holistic view of project financials.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include contract management, which helps you manage and track all your project agreements. The time-tracking feature allows you to monitor employee hours and allocate resources efficiently. You can also generate detailed reports to gain insights into project performance and profitability.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, Zapier, Stripe, Google Calendar, Outlook, Slack, and more.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Integrated invoicing and reporting features
- Real-time budget tracking
- Detailed job costing capabilities
Cons:
- Complex for small projects
- Requires initial setup and learning for new users
Joist is an invoicing and job management software designed for contractors. It helps create estimates, send invoices, and collect payments efficiently.
Why I picked Joist: It's tailored for contractors who need straightforward invoicing and job management. The tool lets you quickly create professional estimates that you can convert into professional-looking invoices with a click. You can accept credit card payments directly through the app, making it easier for clients to pay on time. The ability to manage multiple jobs and track progress sets it apart for contractors juggling various projects.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include a project management tool that helps you track job progress and deadlines. The app offers a client management system to keep all your customer information in one place. You can also generate financial reports to get a clear view of your business's financial health.
Integrations include QuickBooks Online Sync, PayPal, Xero, Stripe, and more.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Client management and job tracking
- Credit card payment acceptance
- Easy estimate conversion and invoicing
Cons:
- Support and reliability concerns
- Limited customization and basic templates
Project 2 Payment is a project management and billing software designed for contractors. It helps manage estimates, invoicing, and payments across various industries, such as cleaning, electrical, and landscaping.
Why I picked Project 2 Payment: It's tailored for contractors who need efficient project tracking along with invoicing. You can create customizable estimates and invoices that fit your business needs. The tool also offers expense tracking for project costs, helping you keep financials in check. With its project management features, you can easily monitor job progress and manage client interactions.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include customer management tools that help you keep all client details organized. The customer portal allows clients to view, approve estimates, and pay online or in person (cards and ACH). Scheduling and reminders help you stay on top of deadlines and appointments. Financial reporting gives you insights into your business performance, aiding in strategic decision-making.
Integrations include QuickBooks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unlimited users and projects for one fixed monthly fee
- Effective expense/payment tracking and project management capabilities
- Adaptable estimates and invoices for a polished and professional look
Cons:
- Requires an internet connection for full functionality
- Limited advanced features compared with larger business platforms
Contractor Invoicing Software Selection Criteria
When selecting the best contractor invoicing software to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points such as managing project billing and ensuring timely payments. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:
Core Functionality (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases:
- Create and send invoices
- Track payment status
- Manage client information
- Generate financial reports
- Handle multiple currencies
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:
- Automated payment reminders
- Customizable invoice templates
- Integrated time tracking
- Mobile app availability
- Multiuser collaboration
Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive user interface
- Easy navigation
- Minimal learning curve
- Customizable dashboard
- Accessibility across devices
Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:
- Availability of training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Access to webinars
- Ready-made templates
- Responsive chat support
Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:
- 24/7 availability
- Multiple contact options
- Knowledge base access
- Response time
- Personalized support
Value for Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:
- Competitive pricing plans
- Features offered in each plan
- Discounts for annual billing
- Free trial availability
- Scalability of pricing
Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:
- Overall satisfaction rating
- Frequency of updates
- User feedback on features
- Support experience
- Ease of integration
How to Choose Contractor Invoicing Software
It’s easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. To help you stay focused as you work through your unique software selection process, here’s a checklist of factors to keep in mind:
| Factor | What to Consider |
|---|---|
| Scalability | Can the software grow with your business? Consider if it can handle more clients or projects as your business expands. Look for solutions that offer tiered pricing for growth. |
| Integrations | Does it work with your current tools? Check if it integrates with your accounting software, CRM, and other business systems. Avoid tools that require manual data entry. |
| Customizability | Can you tailor it to your needs? Ensure the software lets you customize invoices and reports to match your branding and business processes. |
| Ease of use | How quickly can your team learn it? Look for intuitive interfaces that require minimal training. Avoid software with steep learning curves. |
| Implementation and onboarding | How long will it take to get started? Consider the time and resources needed for setup. Look for providers offering onboarding support like tutorials or customer service. |
| Cost | Does it fit your budget? Compare the pricing plans and consider any hidden fees. Ensure it offers value for the price you’ll pay. |
| Security safeguards | How is your data protected? Check for encryption and data backup features. Ensure the provider complies with industry security standards. |
What Is Contractor Invoicing Software?
Contractor invoicing software is designed to help contractors manage billing and payments. These tools are typically used by freelancers, small business owners, and construction professionals to simplify financial management and improve cash flow. Automated invoicing, expense tracking, and payment reminders help with accuracy, efficiency, and timely payments. Overall, these tools save time and reduce errors in financial processes.
Features
When selecting contractor invoicing software, keep an eye out for the following key features:
- Automated invoicing: Automatically generate and send invoices to clients, saving time and reducing manual errors.
- Expense tracking: Monitor and categorize expenses easily, helping you keep accurate financial records.
- Payment reminders: Send automatic reminders to clients for upcoming or overdue payments, improving cash flow.
- Customizable templates: Design invoices and proposals that reflect your brand, providing a professional appearance.
- Time tracking: Track billable hours directly within the software, ensuring accurate client billing.
- Client portal: Offer clients a centralized place to view invoices and make payments, enhancing client interactions.
- Multicurrency support: Handle transactions in various currencies, making it easier to work with international clients.
- Financial reporting: Generate detailed reports to gain insights into your business performance and make informed decisions.
Benefits
Implementing contractor invoicing software provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:
- Time savings: Automated invoicing and payment reminders reduce manual work, freeing up time for more important tasks.
- Improved accuracy: Features such as expense tracking and time tracking ensure billing accuracy, minimizing errors.
- Enhanced cash flow: Automated reminders and quick payment options help you receive payments faster.
- Professional appearance: Customizable templates allow you to create professional invoices that reflect your brand.
- Better financial insights: Financial reporting tools provide valuable insights into business performance, aiding decision-making.
- Client convenience: A client portal offers clients easy access to invoices and payment options, improving client satisfaction.
Costs and Pricing
Selecting contractor invoicing software requires an understanding of the various pricing models and plans available. Costs vary based on features, team size, add-ons, and more. The table below summarizes common plans, their average prices, and typical features included in contractor invoicing software solutions:
Plan Comparison Table for Contractor Invoicing Software
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
|---|---|---|
| Free Plan | $0 | Basic invoicing, expense tracking, and limited templates. |
| Personal Plan | $5-$25/user/month | Customizable templates, payment reminders, and client management. |
| Business Plan | $26-$50/user/month | Multi-currency support, advanced reporting, and additional user access. |
| Enterprise Plan | $51-$100/user/month | Full customization, dedicated support, and integration with other business tools. |
Contractor Invoicing Software FAQs
Here are some answers to common questions about contractor invoicing software:
What is the difference between invoicing software and accounting software?
Invoicing software focuses on billing clients and managing payments, while accounting software handles a broader range of financial tasks such as bookkeeping and financial reporting. If you mainly need to send invoices and track payments, invoicing software is sufficient. However, for complete financial management, you might need accounting software that includes invoicing as a feature. Consider what your business requires before choosing between them.
How does contractor invoicing software help simplify payments for my finance team?
Contractor invoicing software automates invoice creation, approval, and payment processes. This minimizes manual data entry, reduces errors, and speeds up payment cycles so that your finance team can focus on strategic work instead of paperwork.
Can contractor invoicing software integrate with my existing tools?
Yes, most contractor invoicing software can integrate with other tools such as accounting software, CRM systems, and payment gateways. When choosing software, check the available integrations to ensure compatibility with your existing tools. This helps improve your workflow and reduces the need for manual data entry, saving you time and effort.
Do I need technical skills to use contractor invoicing software?
No, most contractor invoicing software is designed to be user-friendly and doesn’t require technical skills. Look for software with an intuitive interface and instructional resources such as tutorials or customer support. If you’re not tech-savvy, choose a solution that offers easy onboarding and support to help you get started quickly and efficiently.
How secure is my data with contractor invoicing software?
Most contractor invoicing software providers prioritize data security and use encryption and other safeguards to protect your information. When selecting software, check for security certifications and compliance with industry standards. Make sure the provider has a clear privacy policy and offers features such as data backup and two-factor authentication to enhance security.
How can contractor invoicing software reduce compliance and audit risks?
Contractor invoicing software improves compliance by automating tax calculations, enforcing required documentation, and keeping an audit trail of all transactions. This simplifies audits and helps ensure all payments comply with company policies and regulations.
What's Next:
If you're in the process of researching contractor invoicing software, connect with a SoftwareSelect advisor for free recommendations.
You fill out a form and have a quick chat where they get into the specifics of your needs. Then you'll get a shortlist of software to review. They'll even support you through the entire buying process, including price negotiations.
