Why Freelancers Delay Invoicing (And How to Fix It)

Freelancers—whether they're writers, designers, developers, or consultants—are known for their ability to manage multiple projects with creativity and precision. However, when it comes to invoicing, many tend to procrastinate, often waiting until the last minute to send bills. Research shows this delay is more common than one might think. A 2023 LinkedIn article identifies "late or irregular invoicing" as one of the most frequent mistakes freelancers make, largely due to poor administrative habits. Similarly, Xero's guide highlights that many freelancers prioritise project work over invoicing, only to scramble when the month comes to a close. According to Hello Bonsai, 29% of freelance invoices are paid late, with delayed invoicing often being a major contributing factor.

So, why do freelancers delay invoicing?

Time Management Challenges: Freelancers are master multitaskers, but juggling multiple roles—creator, marketer, accountant—means that invoicing often feels like the least pressing task. A Webflow blog on invoicing explains that irregular project schedules and shifting priorities make it difficult to keep track of all the details, causing invoicing to fall by the wayside. With looming deadlines, sending invoices can feel like a secondary concern.

The Mental Load of Administrative Work: Tracking hours, calculating fees, and drafting invoices may seem like a tedious chore compared to the creative work that freelancers thrive on. A report by Clockify reveals that small businesses, including freelancers, lose nearly three hours a day to administrative tasks. The temptation to procrastinate on invoicing is understandable when there are so many other tasks vying for attention.

Avoidance of Difficult Conversations: For many freelancers, the process of invoicing can feel awkward—especially when it comes to chasing payments or negotiating terms with new clients. This discomfort often leads to delays, as freelancers avoid invoicing until the pressure of needing payment becomes undeniable.

The Consequences of Delayed Invoicing

Delaying invoices can have a ripple effect on a freelancer’s business: late invoices lead to late payments, which in turn cause cash flow problems and added stress. But there’s good news—this doesn’t have to be the norm.

How to Overcome the Invoicing Struggle

With tools like WorkTabs, freelancers can streamline their invoicing process and regain control over their time. WorkTabs offers easy invoicing solutions that allow freelancers to create and send invoices quickly, no matter where they are. More than just invoicing, WorkTabs helps freelancers stay organised by providing a comprehensive overview of all ongoing projects, tracking their progress from start to finish. This centralised approach eliminates the chaos of manual tracking and last-minute billing, helping freelancers stay on top of both their workload and finances.

By simplifying invoicing, WorkTabs empowers freelancers to focus on what they do best—creating—while ensuring they never miss a payment deadline again. Try WorkTabs here.