When Should You Send an Invoice?
Timing your invoicing cycle correctly is crucial for maintaining cash flow. Sending your payment requests too early or too late can disrupt client accounting cycles and delay payouts. Follow these standard billing timelines:
1. The Retainer Model: Send First
If you operate under a monthly recurring retainer contract, send the invoice on the first day of the billing cycle. Most corporate clients require upfront settlement before services begin.
2. Project Milestones: Send Upon Completion
For project-based contracts, send the invoice immediately after a defined milestone is delivered and approved. Do not wait for the end of the month to send these requests.
3. Hourly Billings: Send Weekly or Bi-weekly
If you bill hourly, establish a regular cycle. Sending invoices bi-weekly prevents outstanding balances from growing too large and ensures consistent cash flow updates.
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Generate PDF InvoiceStandardize on Tuesdays
Studies show that invoices sent on Tuesdays have a higher rate of on-time payment. Avoid sending invoices late on Friday afternoons, as they often get buried in weekend email backlogs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I invoice before or after delivering files?
Generally, invoice immediately upon client approval of the drafts. For digital creative assets, always require the final invoice to be settled before delivering unwatermarked master files.
How long should I wait before sending a late payment reminder?
Send a polite follow-up email reminder the morning after the due date passes. Send subsequent reminders at the 7-day and 14-day marks.