How this content was made: Our analyst drafts each comparison after testing both tools with paid accounts and reviewing 20+ external sources (G2, Capterra, Reddit, vendor docs). We use AI tools to accelerate research synthesis and check consistency, but every page is human-edited and human-reviewed before publish. Pricing and feature claims are verified monthly. Read our full methodology →
QuickBooks Online + Time is our #1 pick for agencies — quickbooks + integrated time tracking — most accountants will be familiar. Best for agencies that work with us accountants. If you need an alternative, Xero + WorkflowMax is the strongest backup choice.
Our Top 5 Picks
✓ TOP PICK
QuickBooks Online + Time
QuickBooks + integrated time tracking — most accountants will be familiar
Pricing: $30-200/mo + add-onsBest for: Agencies that work with US accountants
#2
Xero + WorkflowMax
Xero with project management + invoicing for service businesses
Pricing: $15-78/mo + WFMBest for: International agencies + smaller US firms
#3
Harvest
Time tracking + invoicing built specifically for agencies + studios
Pricing: $11-13.75/seat/moBest for: Agencies billing primarily by the hour
#4
Bonsai Workflow
Proposals + contracts + time + invoicing for service agencies
Pricing: $25-66/moBest for: Boutique agencies under 10 people
#5
Plutio
All-in-one for client work — proposals, contracts, invoicing, project management
Pricing: $32-129/moBest for: Agencies wanting one tool for all client-facing work
How We Picked
Tested in real agencies contexts — not just feature checklists
Agencies-specific feature priority — generic tools were considered only when they substantially out-priced or out-supported the niche options
Pricing transparency — tools requiring sales calls were noted but ranked lower for SMB use cases
Real customer reviews verified — G2, Capterra, Reddit, and our internal interviews
Up-to-date data — pricing verified within 30 days of publication
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best invoicing software for agencies?
Our top pick is QuickBooks Online + Time — QuickBooks + integrated time tracking — most accountants will be familiar. QuickBooks Online + Time is best for agencies that work with us accountants. See all 5 picks below for other use cases.
Is there a free invoicing software option for agencies?
Yes. Plutio has a free or freemium tier suitable for early-stage agencies.
How much does a invoicing software cost for agencies?
Cost ranges from free to $30-200/mo + add-ons for industry-leading platforms. Most agencies businesses spend $15-78/mo + WFM for a quality tool.
Should I use industry-specific or generic invoicing software?
Industry-specific tools (like QuickBooks Online + Time) save you setup time and include workflows tailored to agencies. Generic tools (like Plutio) are cheaper and more flexible. Switch when you outgrow generic.