How to Invoice for Hourly Work

For anyone billing by the hour — track time, describe it clearly, and let the tool do the math.

Billing by the hour is simple in theory: hours × rate. In practice, the invoices that get paid fastest track time accurately, describe each block of work clearly, and total without errors. Here's how to invoice hourly work so clients approve it at a glance.

Track your hours as you go

Log time the same day you work it — a simple note of date, task, and hours is enough. Accurate, itemized time is what makes an hourly invoice defensible if a client questions it. Group time into meaningful blocks (by task or by day) rather than one vague "consulting — 40 hours" line.

What to put on an hourly invoice

• Your details and the client's
• A unique invoice number and the period covered + due date
• One line per task or day, with a clear description, hours, and your hourly rate
• The total hours and the amount (hours × rate) per line
• Subtotal, tax if applicable, and the total due
• Payment terms and methods

Rounding & time increments

Decide how you round and apply it consistently. Common choices are billing in 15-minute (0.25 h) or 6-minute (0.1 h) increments. Whatever you pick, state your rate clearly and don't switch methods mid-project — consistency prevents disputes.

An hourly invoice example

Create it step by step

1. Add your details and the client's, plus the period the invoice covers.
2. Enter one line per task/day with hours and your rate — amounts calculate automatically.
3. Add tax if applicable and review the total.
4. Set terms, download the PDF, and send it promptly.

FAQ