Free Invoicing Software (2026): 10 Options Compared

Most freelancers and small firms don't need a heavy accounting suite just to send a bill. A free invoicing tool can do the job, as long as you know what the free version includes and where its limits sit. Some are hosted apps, some are browser tools and some are open-source programs you run yourself.

Here are ten free invoicing tools in no particular order, sorted alphabetically. A few are familiar names and most are smaller or open-source. I've taken every description from each tool's own website and directory listings, so check the current details on each site before you rely on one. If you're still choosing a type of tool, my guide to choosing invoicing software walks through the decision.

Free invoicing tools side by side

In the free plan column, Yes means the tool's own site shows a permanent free tier, or that the software is free to use. Trial only would mean a free trial with no ongoing plan. No would mean the site states neither. Limits on clients, invoices or users change, so check before you start.

Tool	Type	Good for	Free plan
Akaunting	Open-source accounting	Invoices inside a full accounting package	Yes
Invoice Generator	Browser invoice maker	One-off PDF invoices with no signup	Yes
Invoice Ninja	Invoicing platform	Invoices, quotes and clients in one place	Yes
Invoicely	Online invoicing	Simple invoices with a small free allowance	Yes
InvoicePlane	Self-hosted invoicing	Open-source invoices and quotes on your server	Yes
InvoiceShelf	Self-hosted invoicing	Open-source invoices with recurring billing	Yes
Square Invoices	Invoicing app	Invoices sent by email, text or link	Yes
Wave	Invoicing and accounting	Invoices with bookkeeping alongside	Yes
Zervant	Invoicing app	Invoices and estimates for a few customers	Yes
Zoho Invoice	Invoicing app	Invoices, time logging and a client portal	Yes

Ten invoicing tools with a free plan or free to use

Akaunting

Best for: Owners comfortable with a self-hosted set-up who want invoices, bills and reports in one open-source package.

Invoice Generator

Best for: Freelancers who need a quick invoice as a PDF and don't want to create an account first.

Invoice Ninja

Best for: Small businesses who want a hosted free plan, or the option to run the source-available version themselves.

Invoicely

Best for: Freelancers with a handful of clients who want a plain online tool and a free plan to begin.

InvoicePlane

Best for: Technical owners who want a free, open-source invoice app they can host and adjust themselves.

InvoiceShelf

Best for: People who want an open-source invoice app with estimates and recurring invoices on their own server.

Square Invoices

Best for: Service businesses who want to send invoices from a phone and already use a point-of-sale system.

Wave

Best for: Freelancers who want to create invoices and keep their books in the same place, starting on a free plan.

Zervant

Best for: Sole traders with a short customer list who want a mobile app and a free plan.

Zoho Invoice

Best for: Small businesses who want invoicing with time tracking and a client portal, with no subscription.

What to check in a free invoicing tool

Free versions usually come with limits, so it helps to know which ones matter for the way you work.

• Client and invoice limits. Some free plans cap the number of clients or the invoices you can send in a month.
• Branding. Check whether your invoices carry your own logo and details, or the tool's name.
• Recurring invoices. If you bill the same client regularly, look for repeat invoices and reminders.
• Estimates and quotes. A quote that turns into an invoice saves retyping.
• Tax fields. Make sure the tool can show the tax details your invoices need.
• Exports. You should be able to download your invoices and client list at any time.

If you're not sure what the terms on an invoice mean, my explainer on basic invoicing and accounting terms is a good place to start.

Free invoicing tool or accounting package

• A browser invoice maker is the quickest route for the odd invoice, though it may not store your clients.
• A hosted invoicing app keeps clients, invoices and reminders in one place.
• An accounting package adds bookkeeping and reports, which is handy if you want everything together.
• Self-hosted software gives you control and a free licence, but you'll need to look after the server and the backups.

If bookkeeping is on your mind too, my overview of accounting software for freelancers covers what to look for.

Invoicing, tax and VAT: a note before you start

Invoice rules and tax or VAT depend on where you trade and who you sell to. Some countries require particular wording, numbering or e-invoice formats. This isn't tax advice, so check with an accountant or the official tax body for your own situation.

Free invoicing mistakes to avoid

• Choosing a tool before you've checked its client or invoice limit.
• Forgetting to back up your data, especially with self-hosted software.
• Using a template that leaves out a required detail, such as a registration number.
• Skipping a clear due date and clear terms on every invoice.
• Building your records in one tool with no way to export them.

Why a smaller free invoicing tool can be a smart pick

Smaller and open-source tools are often quicker to learn, and some are built for one kind of user, such as freelancers with a few clients. That focus can mean fewer menus and a lighter set-up.

Before you rely on one, check that it's still being updated, read the help pages and send yourself a test invoice. Make sure you can export your records if you outgrow it.

Do you make an invoicing or billing tool? Tool makers can ask to be considered for a featured place on this list.

Final checks for your free invoicing shortlist

Pick two tools that match your work, then create a real invoice in each. You'll want to compare how fast you can finish one, how professional it looks and whether the limits fit your client list. Keep whichever suits you, and don't forget to note how you'd export your records.

Frequently asked questions

What is free invoicing software?

It's a program or app that lets you create and send invoices without a subscription, either through a permanent free plan, a free browser tool or open-source software you host yourself.

Are free invoicing tools safe to use?

Check who runs the tool, what data it keeps and how you can export or delete it. Keep your own backups, and read the terms before you add client details.

What limits do free plans have?

Common limits include the number of clients, invoices per month, users and features such as reminders or custom branding. Each tool's site lists its own.

Do invoices need to include tax details?

That depends on where you trade. This isn't tax advice, so check with an accountant or the official tax body for your own situation.

Can I move to another tool later?

Usually, if you can export your clients and invoices. Check the export options before you commit.