As a self-employed professional, your cash flow is crucial. You depend on timely payments to keep your business running. Yet many freelancers wait unnecessarily long for their money. These 5 tips will help you get paid faster—starting with your very first invoice.

1. Provide a clear invoice

A client should immediately see what you delivered, when, and how much it costs. Always include:

• Invoice number
• Invoice date and due date
• Description of the service
• Amount and VAT
• Payment details

Use a tool like InvoiceTimer to automatically generate clear invoices.

2. Set a short payment term

Why allow 30 days when 14 works just fine? Many clients pay right before the deadline. A shorter term can speed up payment—especially for smaller amounts or private clients.

3. Send your invoice immediately

The sooner you invoice, the sooner the payment term begins. Send your invoice as soon as the job is done. Within InvoiceTimer, you can do this with one click, right after logging your time or completing the project.

4. Add a payment link or QR code

Make it as easy as possible to pay. Use a payment link (e.g., via Stripe or Mollie) or a SEPA QR code on your invoice. The fewer steps for your client, the faster they’ll pay.

5. Remind promptly and politely

Still not paid on time? Send a friendly reminder as soon as the due date has passed. Don’t wait too long. A reminder doesn’t have to be harsh—it shows that you run a professional business.

With InvoiceTimer, you create clear invoices and keep track of outstanding payments. That way, you get paid faster—and work with less stress.