Web development invoices usually mix two kinds of work: a fixed project fee for the build, and hourly or flat-fee lines for anything that comes up outside the original plan. Keeping those separate on the invoice matches how the project actually ran and avoids disputes over scope.
Web developer invoice example
Here is a filled-in example for the second milestone of a three-part website project. Adjust the milestone name and line items to match your own contract.
dan@example.com
Raleigh, NC
Attn: Renee Adams
88 Orchard Rd
Raleigh, NC 27601
TermsNet 14
| Description | Qty | Rate | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Website design and development, milestone 2 of 3: front-end build | 1 | $2,500.00 | $2,500.00 |
| Custom contact form integration | 1 | $350.00 | $350.00 |
| Hosting setup and DNS configuration (hours) | 2 | $75.00 | $150.00 |
What to include on a web developer invoice
- Your business details. Your name or business name, email address and location.
- The client's billing details. Company name, contact person and billing address.
- A unique invoice number. Useful once you are running several projects at once.
- The project and milestone name. Matches the invoice to your proposal or statement of work.
- Line items for the build, integrations and any pass-through costs. Keep third-party fees separate from your labor.
- Credits for prior milestones, where relevant, so the balance due is what is actually still owed.
How to word your line items
Naming the milestone or feature, not just "development", is what lets a client's finance department approve the invoice without emailing you back.
- Milestone billing: "Website design and development, milestone 2 of 3: front-end build" ties the invoice directly to the project plan.
- Hourly extras: work outside the agreed scope, such as extra integrations or content changes, billed with the hours and rate shown. The hourly invoice template covers this layout.
- Pass-through costs: hosting, domains or paid plugins listed at cost on their own line, separate from your labor.
Payment terms for development projects
- A deposit before starting, often 25 to 50 percent, for new clients or fixed-price builds.
- Milestone payments tied to project phases, so you are paid as the work progresses rather than only at launch.
- Net 14 or Net 30 for ongoing retainer or maintenance work with established clients.
Invoice payment terms explained covers how to choose and word your terms.
Making the invoice with the Invoice Generator
- Open the Invoice Generator and start the invoice for the current milestone or billing period.
- Add the client and each line item, including any pass-through costs at their exact amount.
- Create a free account to save it. Your work is kept while you sign up, and your logo appears on every invoice you send.
- Share the invoice link or download the PDF. You can see when the client opens it, and they can comment directly on the invoice with questions.
If you track hours for the project, unbilled time converts into invoice lines in one step, so hourly extras do not need to be re-typed.
