As business owners, freelance writers need billing software programs that make invoicing an easy process. You also need to be able to send late-payment reminders, track time and expenses, and see how your business is growing month-to-month and over the year.
We’ve taken a look to find the top X software programs for freelance writers so you can focus on what you do best.
1. BillQuick Online
BillQuick is a web-based and allows you to track time and fixed-fees on projects. Track your accounts receivable, including payment history, historical data, and account notes, easily. This package allows you to send out invoices automatically. It gives you the option of e-mailing and printing invoices. Try it for free for 30 days and then on a subscription basis afterward.
2. Freshbooks
Freshbooks is easy to use and works with your computer or mobile device (iPhone, iPad or Android). Developed for small business owners, you can track time, log your expenses and send out invoices quickly and easily. With this option, you can accept credit cards, get paid through Paypal, or any of the other 12 payment gateways. Import expenses from your bank account or credit card to make record keeping simple for tax purposes. Send invoices by e-mail or print them to forward by regular mail. You can track invoice views and send invoices in multiple currencies, too. Manage a single client at no charge for as long as you wish; paid options start once the number of clients you add reaches a set level.
3. SageOne
SageOne allows freelancers to track income and expenses quickly. Bank and credit cards can be integrated into the software, which automatically matches and categorizes recurring transactions. Payments are automatically applied against invoices. The software will generate profit and loss statements, balance sheets and aged invoices. A free 15-day trial is available. Pay as you go after the initial period.
4. QuickBooks
QuickBooks works across multiple devices (computer, iPad, iPhone, Android) to help you stay on top of your billing. It helps you keep track of your sales and expenses, whether you are at your office or on the go. For a fee, this option will allow you to accept credit cards in Quickbooks or on a mobile device.Try it free for 30 days and then pay monthly for the service.
Harvest allows you to create invoices quickly, and send them out through your account. Clients can pay you online. If you are billing by the hour, you can track your time on a Mac, PC, or mobile device. This software will also allow you to track your time via Gmail, Twitter and Zendesk.
If you are working with subcontractors, Harvest will automatically remind them to submit their timesheets. The software also generates a number of reports to help you keep track of your business. You can turn on filters to show only billable, non-billable, or contractor hours. The software will also allow you to export your software to a Google spreadsheet, Excel, or CSV for your convenience.
Harvest offers a free, 30-day trial. After that point, you pay a flat rate for up to three users. You can have unlimited clients, work on an unlimited number of clients and send out unlimited invoices. Data is backed up on a daily basis and you can bill in multiple currencies.
Choose the Right Billing Software Program for Freelance Writers
Which online software program for freelance writers is right for you? Before you make a decision, consider your options carefully. Do your homework and look at the features offered by several options before you buy. As a business owner, you don’t want to spend any more time sending out invoices and generating reports than necessary.
You’ll also want to find a program that is flexible enough to grow with your business. If you know (or anticipate) that you will be bringing in subcontractors in, make sure that the plan you choose will make it easy for you to track their hours and invoices so that you can stay on top of your accounts payable.
For more information about setting up a freelance writer invoice, check out these helpful links:
How to Write the Perfect Invoice
How to Write an Invoice for a Freelance Job
Free Invoice Template for Freelancers
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