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GuidesMarch 5, 2025

Progress Billing Explained: When to Use It for Large Projects

By Sarah Hassanieh

Progress Billing Explained: When to Use It for Large Projects

Progress (or Milestone) invoicing is essential for large, long-term projects. Learn how to structure and implement this billing method.

If you're working on a multi-month project—like web development, construction, or extensive consulting—waiting until the end to bill is a cash-flow killer. That's where progress billing comes in.

What is Progress Billing?

It's billing in stages based on milestones completed or a percentage of the total work done. It ensures you have the capital to fund the project as you go.

When Should You Use It?

  • Project duration is over 30 days.
  • Total project cost is significant.
  • You have material/upfront costs.

Structuring Your Progress Invoice

Your invoice must clearly state:

  • The specific milestone completed (e.g., "Phase 1: Design Approval").
  • The total contract value.
  • The percentage of the total being billed in this invoice.
  • The cumulative amount billed to date.

Example: *Total Project: $10,000. Milestone 2 (40% Complete): $4,000.*

Invoice ASAP supports progress billing, allowing you to easily track the overall project and generate partial invoices based on completion percentages.

Tags:

#progress-billing#large-projects#cash-flow#milestones

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