by EmilyTop Invoice Tools for Freelance Designers and Artists
Freelance designers and artists often juggle creativity with client management, deadlines, and—most importantly—getting paid. While your creative work speaks volumes, invoicing plays a critical role in your professional reputation and financial success.
Choosing the right invoicing tool can streamline your business, save hours of administrative work, and ensure timely payments. Whether you're creating logos, illustrations, brand identities, or social media graphics, having an efficient invoicing system lets you focus on what you do best—creating.
At FreelancerBridge, we know how crucial it is for creatives to have tools that match their workflow and aesthetic sensibility. In this guide, you'll discover the top invoicing tools specifically tailored for freelance designers and artists, including their features, benefits, and why they're worth your attention in 2025.
Long Description: Top Invoice Tools for Freelance Designers and Artists
1. FreshBooks
Overview:
FreshBooks is one of the most popular invoicing and accounting tools among creative freelancers. It offers beautiful, professional invoices and tracks payments, expenses, and even time spent on projects.
Key Features:
Custom invoice templates with your logo
Automatic late payment reminders
Expense tracking and time logging
Client portal for communication
Mobile app for on-the-go invoicing
Why it's great for designers:
Its clean design and intuitive interface align with the aesthetic preferences of visual creatives. It's perfect for those who want a full-suite invoicing and finance solution.
Best for: Mid-level to pro freelancers who want accounting + invoicing.
2. Bonsai
Overview:
Bonsai is built specifically for freelancers and creative professionals. It goes beyond invoicing with contracts, proposals, time tracking, and tax estimates all in one platform.
Key Features:
One-click professional invoices
Automatic reminders and recurring payments
Smart proposals and e-signature contracts
Time tracking and task management
Tax estimates and expense tracking
Why it's great for artists:
Ideal for creatives who want a business-in-a-box. Bonsai helps manage the entire client process from proposal to payment without leaving the platform.
Best for: All-in-one workflow for creative freelancers.
3. PayPal Invoicing
Overview:
PayPal is globally recognized and trusted by clients. Its invoicing feature is simple, secure, and widely accepted, making it perfect for freelancers working with international clients.
Key Features:
Easy-to-use invoice templates
Supports multiple currencies
Clients can pay via credit card, debit, or PayPal
Built-in payment tracking
No subscription required
Why it's great for designers:
It’s especially useful for freelancers starting out or working with overseas clients who prefer PayPal’s secure payment system.
Best for: Beginners or global client base.
4. Wave
Overview:
Wave offers free invoicing and accounting software with a surprising number of premium features. Ideal for designers and artists who want robust tools without the monthly fee.
Key Features:
Unlimited invoices and clients
Automatic payment reminders
Credit card and bank payment options
Accounting dashboard for income and expenses
Easy-to-read reports
Why it's great for designers:
Wave’s clean interface and free pricing make it ideal for solo creatives managing smaller client loads.
Best for: Freelancers looking for a powerful free tool.
5. Zoho Invoice
Overview:
Part of the Zoho suite, Zoho Invoice is a flexible, customizable invoicing solution with features tailored for creatives.
Key Features:
Custom invoice and quote templates
Multi-currency and multilingual support
Recurring invoices and payment reminders
Mobile app for iOS and Android
Client portal for communication and approvals
Why it’s great for artists:
You can brand every invoice beautifully, making it a great match for designers who want control over layout and style.
Best for: Creative freelancers with international clients or complex billing needs.
6. AND.CO (by Fiverr)
Overview:
AND.CO is a freelancer-focused platform with a strong emphasis on simplicity and automation. It’s ideal for designers who want minimal hassle and clean workflows.
Key Features:
Branded invoices
Recurring billing and automatic reminders
Built-in proposals and contracts
Project and time tracking
Mobile access
Why it’s great for creatives:
The interface is designed for efficiency with elegance, aligning perfectly with creative professionals.
Best for: Creatives who value automation and simplicity.
7. QuickBooks Self-Employed
Overview:
From one of the most recognized accounting brands, QuickBooks Self-Employed offers solid invoicing features alongside tax tracking and expense management.
Key Features:
Invoice creation and tracking
Mileage and expense tracking
Quarterly tax estimation
Integration with TurboTax
Customizable reports
Why it's great for artists:
If you want to keep your freelance taxes and payments in check, this is one of the best long-term tools.
Best for: Freelancers needing accounting + tax-ready features.
8. Invoicely
Overview:
Invoicely offers free and paid plans for fast, simple invoice generation, especially suited for creatives who want straightforward features.
Key Features:
Recurring invoices and billing
Accept online payments
Multi-currency and tax settings
Invoice customization
Team collaboration options (in paid plan)
Why it’s great for artists:
It’s easy to use, clean in design, and perfect for sending professional invoices without technical complexity.
Best for: Freelancers who want a balance between simplicity and professionalism.
How to Choose the Right Invoicing Tool for Your Creative Business
Choosing the right tool depends on a few core questions:
1. What’s your monthly client load?
If you manage 1–2 clients/month, tools like PayPal or Wave might be enough. If you’re juggling 5–10 active projects, FreshBooks or Bonsai will help manage the flow better.
2. Do you need full workflow integration?
If you want invoicing + contracts + proposals + time tracking, go for Bonsai, AND.CO, or Zoho.
3. Do you work internationally?
Choose a tool with multi-currency support, such as PayPal, Zoho, or Invoicely.
4. Do you have a strict budget?
Wave and PayPal offer excellent functionality for free. Paid platforms often offer more automation and branding options.
Why Invoicing Matters for Freelancers
Professionalism: A branded, structured invoice builds trust and credibility.
Faster Payments: Clear, well-formatted invoices lead to quicker approval and payments.
Tax Prep: Many of these tools offer financial reports, which simplify tax season.
Time Efficiency: Automating billing saves you hours every month.
Tips to Maximize Invoicing Efficiency
Use branded templates with your logo and colors
Set clear payment terms (Net 7 or Net 14)
Always add late fees for overdue payments (politely stated)
Send invoices immediately after milestone completion
Track all unpaid invoices and follow up weekly
Offer multiple payment methods for convenience
Conclusion:
Invoicing doesn’t have to be a chore. With the right tool, it can become a streamlined part of your creative workflow—just like sketching, editing, or designing. As a freelancer, getting paid accurately and on time is non-negotiable, and your invoicing software should support that goal.
Whether you're a graphic designer, illustrator, digital artist, or creative strategist, these top invoice tools will help you look professional, stay organized, and focus on growing your business in 2025.
At FreelancerBridge, we believe the right tools empower creatives to thrive. Use this guide to test out your options and build a system that supports your creativity and strengthens your freelance income.
