7 best invoice software for graphic designers
Managing your finances as a graphic designer is just as important as creating stunning designs. Whether you’re a freelancer or part of a design studio, finding the right invoicing software can help you streamline payment processes and stay organized.
In this article, we’ll look at the best invoicing software for graphic designers, starting with FreshBooks, a powerful all-in-one solution, and explore several top alternatives that might suit your unique needs.
Overview of the best invoicing software for graphic designers
Here’s a quick comparison of the top invoicing tools designed to meet the unique needs of graphic designers.
| Software | Key features | Best for | Pricing | Advantage |
| FreshBooks | Custom invoices, time tracking, expense tracking | Freelancers needing an all-in-one platform | Starts at $21/month | Comprehensive invoicing, time tracking, and expense tools |
| HoneyBook | Client management, project tools, customizable invoices | Designers focusing on client relationships | Starts at $29/month | Great for client communication and contract management |
| Invoice2go | Quick invoicing, multiple payment options | Designers needing simple, fast invoicing | Starts at $5.99/month | Fast, straightforward invoicing |
| Zoho Invoice | Customizable templates, time/expense tracking | Designers seeking customization and automation | Free | Strong customization and automation |
| Wave | Custom invoices, accounting tools, payment processing | Budget-conscious designers | Free for standard features | Free invoicing and accounting |
| QuickBooks | Cloud accounting, invoicing, automation | Designers needing advanced accounting tools | Starts at $20/month | All-in-one accounting and invoicing solution |
| Dubsado | Custom workflows, client portal, contract management | Freelancers needing workflow automation | Starts at $35/month | Efficient workflow and project management |
1. FreshBooks: The #1 choice for graphic designers
FreshBooks is a standout invoicing tool tailored for small businesses and freelancers, including graphic designers. Its combination of easy-to-use features and robust invoicing tools makes it the perfect choice for those who want to manage their creative business efficiently. For creatives seeking a comprehensive solution, FreshBooks offers specialized tools to streamline invoicing, time tracking, and expense management.
Key features:
- Customizable invoices: Quickly create branded graphic design invoices to match your style, ensuring clients get a professional experience.
- Time tracking: For designers who charge by the hour, FreshBooks provides time tracking to ensure you bill clients accurately.
- Expense tracking: Easily track project-related expenses and prepare for tax season with detailed reports.
- Client Portal: FreshBooks offers a secure portal where clients can view invoices, make payments, and communicate directly.
FreshBooks’ leading value proposition: Streamline your business operations so you can focus on your design work while keeping your finances in order. It’s a comprehensive platform that brings invoicing, time tracking, expense management, and reporting together in one place.
2. HoneyBook: Ideal for client relationships
HoneyBook is a business management platform that helps freelancers and small businesses manage client communication, contracts, scheduling, and payments, all in one place. While it focuses more on CRM and client relationships, it still includes powerful invoicing tools for graphic designers.
Key features:
- All-in-one platform: Manage client interactions, contracts, invoices, and payments.
- Project management Tools: Keep your design projects organized and track milestones and deadlines.
- Branding tools: Customize your invoices to reflect your personal design style.
HoneyBook’s leading value proposition: HoneyBook stands out by focusing on building strong client relationships, helping you scale your creative business with seamless communication and contract management.
How it compares to FreshBooks: While HoneyBook does offer invoicing, its client relationship management (CRM) features are its main selling point, making it a better option for designers who want to manage client communication alongside invoicing.
3. Invoice2go: Simple and straightforward
Invoice2go is an invoicing and billing tool designed for small businesses, offering a simple, clear user interface for quickly creating and sending invoices. It’s an excellent choice for graphic designers who need an easy, effective invoicing solution.
Key features:
- Quick invoicing: Create and send invoices in minutes.
- Multiple payment options: Accept payments via credit cards, PayPal, and more.
- Expense management: Track your expenses and keep your finances in check.
Invoice2go’s leading value proposition: Quick, simple invoicing makes it ideal for graphic designers who need to get paid fast without unnecessary complications.
How it compares to FreshBooks: While Invoice2go offers basic invoicing features, FreshBooks is more comprehensive, with additional tools for time tracking, expense management, and client communication.
4. Zoho Invoice: Great for customization
Zoho Invoice is a part of the Zoho suite of tools designed for freelancers and small businesses. It offers highly customizable invoices, time tracking, and integration with other Zoho apps, making it a great choice for graphic designers who want flexibility in managing their projects and invoices.
Key features:
- Highly customizable templates: Create invoices that perfectly match your branding.
- Time and expense tracking: Track hours worked and expenses for accurate billing.
- Automation: Automate invoice reminders and recurring invoices for ongoing projects.
Zoho Invoice’s leading value proposition: Zoho Invoice provides customization and automation to help streamline your invoicing and project management processes.
How it compares to FreshBooks: While Zoho Invoice offers great customization options, FreshBooks provides a more user-friendly experience, with a broader set of features for freelancers and small businesses, including better customer support.
5. Wave: Free and powerful
Wave is a completely free invoicing and accounting software designed for small business owners and freelancers. It’s a solid choice for graphic designers just starting out who need a budget-friendly solution.
Key features:
- Customizable invoices: Easily create professional invoices for clients.
- Accounting tools: Manage your business’s finances with integrated accounting features.
- Payment processing: Accept credit card payments directly through your invoices.
Wave’s leading value proposition: Wave offers free invoicing and accounting, making it an ideal option for designers on a tight budget who need essential invoicing features.
How it compares to FreshBooks: Wave is free and excellent for basic invoicing, but FreshBooks offers a more comprehensive suite of features, including time tracking, project management, and better customer support.
6. QuickBooks: Comprehensive accounting
QuickBooks is a robust accounting and invoicing tool for small businesses, including freelancers. It’s ideal for graphic designers who want advanced accounting features alongside invoicing.
Key features:
- Cloud accounting: Manage all your finances from anywhere with cloud-based tools.
- Invoicing and payment: Create professional invoices and accept payments online.
- Automated features: QuickBooks offers automation for recurring invoices and payment reminders.
QuickBooks’ leading value proposition: QuickBooks is an all-in-one accounting and invoicing solution, ideal for businesses that need robust financial tools alongside basic invoicing.
How it compares to FreshBooks: While QuickBooks is excellent for comprehensive accounting, FreshBooks is more user-friendly, offering a better experience for freelancers who don’t need as many accounting features.
7. Dubsado: Tailored for freelancers
Dubsado is a business management platform focused on workflows, contracts, and invoicing. It’s a great choice for graphic designers who need a personalized approach to managing their clients and projects.
Key features:
- Custom workflows: Automate client communication, invoicing, and project management.
- Client portal: Provide clients with an easy way to view invoices and make payments.
- Contract management: Send and sign contracts directly within the platform.
Dubsado’s leading value proposition: Dubsado focuses on workflow automation to help freelancers manage projects and invoicing efficiently.
How it compares to FreshBooks: Dubsado offers great workflow automation, but FreshBooks is more intuitive and focused on simplifying invoicing and accounting, making it easier for graphic designers to manage their finances.
Conclusion
Choosing the right invoicing software is essential for graphic designers to stay organized and ensure timely payments. FreshBooks offers a comprehensive solution with features like time tracking, expense management, and customizable invoicing, making it a popular choice among freelancers and small business owners.
However, other tools such as HoneyBook, Zoho Invoice, and QuickBooks offer valuable alternatives, each with unique features tailored to different needs.
Whether you’re looking for advanced client management, deep customization, or a simple, affordable tool, there are options available to help streamline your invoicing and business processes. Ultimately, the best invoicing software will depend on your specific business requirements and preferences.