Started including detailed expense reports with my invoices recently. Clients seem to appreciate the transparency, but it’s adding extra work to my billing process.
Wondering if other freelancers do this and if it’s worth the effort long-term. Does it help build trust or just create more questions?
I’ve tried both ways. Here’s my take:
Detailed reports:
Simple invoices:
I settled on a middle ground. I list major expenses on the invoice, but skip the tiny stuff. If a client wants more details, I’ll provide them. But most don’t ask.
Remember, we’re selling our skills, not itemizing every paperclip. Focus on delivering great work. That builds more trust than any expense report.
I keep it simple. Just list major expenses on the invoice if needed.
Detailed reports can lead to nitpicking and slow payments. Focus on the value you provide, not every little cost.
If a client asks for more details, then you can provide them. Otherwise, it’s probably not worth the extra work.
Waste of time unless the client asks for it. I’ve been doing this for years and never had issues just listing the big expenses on the invoice. Most clients care about the total, not the nitty-gritty.
If someone wants more detail, they’ll let you know. Otherwise, you’re just making more work for yourself and opening the door to questions about every little thing. Keep it simple, get paid, move on to the next job.
Nah, don’t bother with all that detail. Just put the big stuff on the invoice if you need to. Clients usually only care about the total anyway. Keep it simple and save yourself the hassle.
I’ve been on both sides of this. Started out including detailed expense reports, thinking it would show I’m trustworthy. But it backfired.
Clients started questioning every little thing. “Why’d you need 3 pens?” “Couldn’t you have found cheaper paper?” It was a nightmare.
Now I just list the big expenses on the invoice. If it’s over $50, I’ll include it. Anything smaller, I lump into a “misc expenses” line.
This works way better. I still look professional, but I’m not inviting unnecessary scrutiny. And I’m saving hours each month on paperwork.
If a client really wants more detail, I’ll give it to them. But in 5 years, only one has ever asked. Most just want to know the total and pay it.
Focus on doing great work. That builds more trust than any expense report ever will.
Sounds like a headache. I just write down costs on paper.