Contractor invoicing software helps automate and manage billing and payment processes for construction projects. Here’s our guide to the top solutions based on user reviews and our internal review process.
- AvidXchange: Best Overall
- FreshBooks: Best for Small Firms
- Jobber: Best for Field Service Management
- HoneyBook: Best for Independent Contractors
- Invoice2go: Most User-Friendly Option
- Joist: Best for QuickBooks Users
- Premier Construction Software: Best Accounting Module
- Planyard: Best for General Contractors
- Procore: Best for Enterprises
- ProjectPro: Best for Microsoft Dynamics Users
- Zoho Invoice: Best Free Version
1 AvidXchange - Best Overall
Why we chose it: AvidXchange is our top overall pick as an accounts payable software designed specifically for real estate and construction. We found its invoice application useful, allowing contractors to scan finished invoices and submit them to clients via a secure electronic portal. This portal helps improve the turnaround time from sending a bill to receiving payment by keeping the process entirely online.
Once an invoice is approved, it will automatically move to accounts payable. Automated AP tools allow accounting teams to review invoices electronically and route them based on customized rules. For example, users can get set alerts when an invoice goes from upcoming to past due.
Captured invoice information can show payment status throughout the process, providing a clear audit trail for your records. AvidXchange’s complete visibility into invoice status makes it easy even for busy general contractors to know who owes money and when. With automated updates, management can effectively report on all accounts paid or outstanding.
AvidXchange offers integration with over 100 other accounting systems, including popular options like NetSuite, Blackbaud, Microsoft Dynamics, Intacct, MRI, and QuickBooks.
2 FreshBooks - Best for Small Firms
Why we chose it: We found FreshBooks best for smaller firms, simplifying billing and invoicing for less time spent on paperwork and more on construction projects. First, the software automatically tracks billable hours for users to include on invoices, ensuring they accurately bill the client for their work.
We also like that FreshBook’s invoicing processes are highly automated. This platform allows contractors to enter invoices quickly, requiring minimal custom contact data. Then, users can send them out via e-mail or traditional mail. Each invoice auto-sends based on completion, as are any applicable late payment notices.
With FreshBooks, all data is stored securely in the cloud, with the option of accepting client payments online. Firms can directly connect their bank accounts through FreshBooks for full transaction visibility. Finally, FreshBooks’ iOS and Android mobile apps provide customizable invoice functionality on the go.
3 Jobber - Best for Field Service Management
Why we chose it: Jobber made our list because it’s primarily a field service management software, including tools to create estimates, quotes, and invoices. This software reduces time spent on tasks like data entry of billable hours to the point that Jobber users save an average of six hours of paperwork per week.
Jobber includes automated services for contractors, allowing them to stay on top of project requests, while customizable templates can generate high-quality quotes. Users can send timely follow-ups and get signature approvals when a job is accepted. Finally, contractors can email or text invoices through Jobber. Firms can even receive payments through the platform, keeping all cash flow in one easy-to-manage spot.
Jobber is used by:
- General contractors
- Electricians
- Roofers
- Plumbers
- Painters
- HVAC specialists
4 HoneyBook - Best for Independent Contractors
Why we chose it: The HoneyBook is a project management platform with easy-to-use tools that small businesses and independent contractors can use to prepare invoices. Also a customer relationship management (CRM) platform, contractors can respond to clients quickly and professionally with automated follow-ups regarding invoices using personalized templates for client notifications.
In addition, automated payment reminders can be sent to customers to present late payments. And task reminders can be created based on the specifics of project timelines. You can even allow customers to submit online payments to finish the billing process faster.
HoneyBook integrates with other online business tools such as:
- QuickBooks
- Calendly
- Zapier
- Gmail
- Google Calendar
Combining HoneyBook with these tools allows users to customize their business processes fully. Contractors can access a free trial to see if the software is right for their companies.
5 Invoice2go - Most User-Friendly Option
Why we chose it: Invoice2go is primarily a debt collection app offering ready-to-go invoices and purchase orders for contractors. A simple drag-and-drop interface lets users customize and create their own styles, while tooltips explain what every button does. Anyone can make a professional, polished invoice without being weighed down by complicated accounting jargon. The app is compatible with iOS and Android devices for crafting invoices on the go.
One of the hardest parts of being a general contractor or construction business owner is handling all the accounting tasks without training. To address this, Invoice2go produces professional invoices and other business documents with virtually no learning curve. A step-by-step guide helps users complete invoices in minutes rather than hours.
There is a free trial available to try out Invoice2go. Pricing starts at $10 per month.
6 Joist - Best for QuickBooks Users
Why we chose it: Joist is a contractor app that syncs with QuickBooks Online accounts to automate bookkeeping services. The software also allows users to perform estimates and prepare invoices anywhere, at any time.
Contractors can fully customize professional invoices by adding their company logo and relevant project photos to the document with only a few clicks. The platform stores client info securely in one place, accessible from mobile devices and the web. Joist also enables customer payments by credit card, debit card, eCheck, or through PayPal. Web-based payments allow firms to get paid faster, no longer requiring a visit to the customer or job site just to get a final signature on payment paperwork. Finally, users can set milestone payment schedules where customers pay as the job progresses.
Joist is available for as low as $14 per month when billed annually. A free version is available with an iOS or Android app.
7 Premier Construction Software - Best Accounting Module
Why we chose it: Premier Construction Software, sometimes called Jonas Premier, is a construction project management and accounting cloud software. We found its financial tools noteworthy because they support various billing methods for customers, including flat rates, time and materials, and quotations. Contractors can even set separate price ranges based on the type of work (ie, commercial/residential) and preferred customers. And they can pre-define various markup tables, charge-out rates, and flat rate tables.
Premier Construction Software offers unlimited mark-ups and fee calculations for jobs requiring time and material billing. Standard mark-ups are defaulted or overridden based on customer preference. There are unlimited reports and applications for jobs requiring progress billing/AIA. Thanks to the powerful and easy-to-use drag-and-drop form designer through Microsoft Word, users can create custom alternatives to the standard billing forms.
Finally, we like that Premier handles purchase order management and expense reporting activities. The Time and Expense module lets managers enter employee or crew time, calculate any group deductions, manage union reports, and track prevailing wages by job. Both contractors and the on-site teams can view and enter daily job logs on their mobile phones by installing Premier mobile apps available for Android and iOS.
8 Planyard - Best for General Contractors
Why we chose it: The Planyard platform is intended for medium and large construction companies, mainly serving general contractors. Overall, we found Planyard helpful in ensuring compliance; the software standardizes operations from bidding to contract management, subcontractor billing, and invoicing.
Planyard’s budget and cost-tracking features help general contractors perform accurate construction estimates and bidding. Once a firm wins a project, Planyard can track all change orders to adjust the final total for the invoice. Cash flow forecasting can show customer payments, and accounting integrations reduce the time once spent on manually calculating invoices.
9 Procore - Best for Enterprises
Why we chose it: Procore is best for enterprises, providing tools for invoicing, scheduling, and job logging. In particular, the construction financials portion of Procore helps general contractors connect back-office functions with the construction workers and managers in the field. Project teams can manage changing costs in real-time directly from the job site. This includes updating billable hours or material costs on the final invoice.
The job cost page lets contractors view job cost summary data and committed costs for each project. They can review the details of each transaction to see what makes up even the smallest line items before sending out invoices to ensure overall billing accuracy.
Independent contractors and project managers can integrate Procore with other accounting software, including:
- QuickBooks Pro
- QuickBooks Premier
- Sage 100 Contractor
- Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate
- Viewpoint Spectrum
- Viewpoint Vista
10 ProjectPro - Best for Microsoft Dynamics Users
Why we chose it: ProjectPro is powered by Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central. The software integrates with Business Central payroll solutions like Primo PayDay, Payroll NOW, and Serenic, as well as third-party services such as ADP, Paychex, and Paylocity.
We found ProjectPro adept at tracking daily expenses, working on progress billings, or checking progress reports in one central location. The customer relationship management (CRM) tools make it easy to contact customers when it’s time to send the bill and follow up on invoices.
Additionally, the progress billing feature helps manage bills based on unit consumption or lump sum contracts. Users can bill customers and clients based on the progress of construction projects. Preferred “Contract” planning or schedule value lines decide billing arrangements.
The ProjectPro Progress Billings Granule provides the following billing documents and reports:
- Generic Progress Billing by Schedule of Value (Contract) – Bill by %, Work Units, Lump Sum $
- AIA G702 Progress Billing (American Institute of Architects) Document
- AIA G703 Progress Billing – Continue Progress Billing continuous detail sheet
Builders, contractors, remodelers and construction business owners can all streamline operations using ProjectPro. Software pricing starts at $52 per month, and a free trial is available for testing out features.
11 Zoho Invoice - Best Free Version
Why we chose it: Zoho Invoice has a forever free version that works for businesses with five or fewer customers, making it one of the best free invoicing software for contractors.
Zoho improves invoicing processes through customized templates, workflow automation, and real-time collaboration with your team and clients.
Available integrations include:
- Paypal
- Zoho CRM
- G Suite
- Stripe
- Zoho Projects
- 2CheckOut
- Dropbox
- One Drive
What Is Contractor Invoicing Software?
Construction invoicing software is a specialized digital solution tailored to manage invoice creation, sending, tracking, and processing for the construction industry. It enables accurate billing for construction projects’ services, materials, and labor.
This software typically includes features for:
- Generating detailed invoices
- Tracking payments
- Handling change orders
- Integrations with project management and accounting systems
Its goal is to improve cash flow, enhance transparency, reduce administrative burdens, and ensure timely payment for completed work.
Key Features
The key features of construction invoicing software include customizable templates, progress billing, and time tracking.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Customizable Invoices | Allows users to personalize invoice templates to include branding and project-specific details. |
| Progress Billing | Supports invoicing based on project milestones or stages, suitable for long-term projects. |
| Change Order Management | Tracks and bills for modifications in project scope, ensuring all changes are accounted for financially. |
| Time Tracking | Integrates time tracking for labor, allowing for accurate billing of hours worked on a project. |
| Expense Tracking | Enables recording and categorizing of project-related expenses for accurate cost allocation. |
| Multi-Project Management | Facilitates handling billing and invoicing for multiple projects simultaneously. |
| Payment Processing | Supports processing of payments directly through the software, including electronic payments. |
| Tax Compliance | Automatically calculates and applies relevant taxes to invoices, ensuring compliance. |
| Reporting and Analytics | Offers insights through reports on invoicing, payments, outstanding balances, and financial health. |
| Client Portal | Provides clients with access to their invoices, payments, and project billing history. |
Benefits
Construction billing software offers many benefits, including enhanced financial tracking, improved cash flow, and streamlined client communication.
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Improved Cash Flow | Facilitates faster invoice processing and payment, enhancing the cash flow for construction projects. |
| Accuracy and Efficiency | Reduces errors in billing through automation, ensuring accuracy and saving time. |
| Enhanced Financial Tracking | Provides a consolidated view of financial data, aiding in better financial management and decision-making. |
| Streamlined Communication | Simplifies communication with clients and team members by centralizing invoicing information. |
| Compliance and Security | Ensures invoicing practices comply with industry standards and regulations while securing sensitive financial data. |
| Customization and Scalability | Offers customizable invoicing solutions that can scale with the growth of the business. |
| Real-time Financial Insights | Delivers real-time insights into financial performance, helping to identify trends and make informed decisions. |
| Professionalism | Elevates the business’s professional image with well-designed and consistent invoicing. |
| Reduced Paperwork | Minimizes the need for physical paperwork, contributing to environmental sustainability and reducing clutter. |
| Integration Capabilities | Easily integrates with other software systems, providing a seamless workflow and data synchronization. |
How to Make Construction Invoices
Construction invoicing is hard enough thanks to specialized billing, which needs to account for fixed price, time and material, unit price, and progress billing. A lot of independent contractors need help with making invoices. Putting together estimates and categorizing bills is a completely different skill set from installing roofing or updating electrical wiring.
As a result, most contractors rely on software to streamline the process and reduce potential errors when billing clients. And as described above, most contractor estimate and invoice software offers additional accounting modules to cover job costing, financial reporting, and even basic payroll. If you’re looking for a more efficient way to prepare professional invoices, consider construction accounting software.
How Much Does Construction Invoicing Software Cost?
Monthly fees for cloud-based services typically range from $10 to $400, with some plans pricing per user from $50 to $200. Contractor invoicing software costs vary based on factors like:
- Business size
- User count
- Desired modules
While free versions exist, they often come as trial demos and may suit only small firms with modest needs and fewer users.
