Keeping tabs on unpaid invoices is driving me nuts. I’ve tried spreadsheets, but they’re a pain to update. Anyone found a system that actually works without spending hours each week?
Looking for something that won’t break the bank but still keeps me organized. Bonus if it can send reminders automatically.
I use a simple invoicing app on my phone. It tracks due dates and sends auto-reminders.
Once a week, I spend 15 minutes going through unpaid invoices. For repeat offenders, I call them directly.
Keep it basic. The point is getting paid, not becoming an accounting expert.
I’ve been in your shoes, and here’s what worked for me:
Started with a basic Google Sheet. Column for client, invoice number, amount, due date, and status. Added a column for notes too.
Set up conditional formatting. Green for paid, yellow for approaching due date, red for overdue. Visual cues helped a ton.
Every Monday morning, I’d spend 20 minutes updating it. Became a habit real quick.
For reminders, I used Google Calendar. Set an event for each invoice due date. It’d ping me, and I’d send a quick follow-up email.
When things got busier, switched to FreshBooks. Costs a bit, but the time saved was worth it. Auto-reminders are a lifesaver.
Whatever you choose, stick with it. Consistency is key. And don’t be afraid to pick up the phone for those tricky clients. Sometimes a quick call is all it takes to get paid.
I’ve been through the invoice tracking struggle too. Here’s what finally worked for me:
Pick one and stick with it. The key is consistency.
Also, set aside 30 minutes every Friday to review. It’s a game-changer.
Remember, the goal is to get paid, not become an accounting whiz. Keep it simple and stay on top of it.
I just use my phone’s notes app. Not fancy, but it works. Write down who owes what and when. Check it once a week. Easy peasy.
Pen and paper works fine for me. Old school but gets the job done.
Forget the fancy apps. Get a basic invoicing software that does the job. I use Wave. It’s free and tracks everything without the hassle.
Set up automatic reminders for overdue invoices. That’ll save you chasing people down.
Check your outstanding invoices every Monday morning. Make it a habit. 15 minutes tops.
For the real problem clients, pick up the phone. A quick call usually gets things moving.
Bottom line: find a system and stick to it. The goal is getting paid, not perfect bookkeeping.