How to choose an invoicing tool for your business
Why stop invoicing with Excel or Word
Many freelancers start invoicing using a template in Word or a spreadsheet in Excel. It works for the first invoices. However, the more clients you have, the more time-consuming invoicing becomes.
Specifically, here's what Excel and Word are costing you:
You manually fill out each invoice again – re-entering the same information repeatedly
You have to keep track of invoice numbering yourself
There's no automatic overview of what’s paid and what’s not
Exporting data for accounting is tedious and prone to errors
If you're issuing even just 3-5 invoices per month, an online tool will save you tens of minutes of extra work. With a higher volume, you'll save even more time.
What should a good invoicing tool offer
Before deciding on a specific software, consider what you truly need. Key criteria include:
Simplicity and speed – the new tool should be intuitive from the first use, without lengthy training. You should be able to issue an invoice for a new client within two minutes.
Features that match your needs – don't be swayed by features you won't use. Most freelancers need basic invoicing, document management, and export for accounting. Only pay for what you truly need.
Customer support – it should be a tool that makes your business easier, not harder. Verify if support is available via chat or email and how quickly they respond.
InvoiceOnline: a clear choice for freelancers and small businesses
If you’re looking for a tool that meets the needs of most freelancers and small businesses, InvoiceOnline meets key criteria without unnecessary complexity.
You can generate an invoice directly on the website within seconds – even without registration. This way, you can see what the final document looks like right away.
Example:
Jana is a freelance graphic designer. Every month, she issues 8-12 invoices to regular clients. Previously, she would rewrite data in a spreadsheet, keep track of serial numbers, and figure out where to save the invoice. Now she issues an invoice in two minutes, clicks send, and has an automatic overview of what's paid.
What specifically does InvoiceOnline offer:
Unlimited number of invoices without restrictions on the number of documents
Contact and numbering management – enter the purchaser's details once, then simply select them
Customizable invoice appearance – colors, stamp
Support for both VAT payers and non-payers
After a five-week free trial, you can choose from two annual plans – MINI for basic invoicing or PREMIUM with advanced features like back edits, template creation, or bulk actions.
InvoiceOnline operates in 11 markets across North America and has over 200,000 users with an average rating of 4.9 on Google. It works directly in your browser – no installation, available anywhere.
How to proceed when choosing a tool
Write down what you actually need – number of invoices, number of clients, need for automation
Try the trial period – most tools offer it for free
Start simply – you can always upgrade to a higher plan; a complex system from the start unnecessarily complicates work
If you are a freelancer or small business looking for a reliable tool without unnecessary complexity, try InvoiceOnline – you can issue your first invoice within minutes.
Invoicing that doesn’t waste your time
The right invoicing tool isn't a luxury – it's an investment that pays off as soon as you save your first hour. The sooner you move from Excel or Word to an online solution, the sooner you can focus on what truly matters in your business.
InvoiceOnline is designed precisely for this purpose: simply, without unnecessary complications, and for a price that makes sense even for starting freelancers. Try it free for five weeks – no commitments, right in your browser.