Managing invoices as an Indian freelancer can be challenging, especially with GST compliance, tax calculations, and payment integrations. Here’s a quick guide to the 10 best invoicing apps tailored for Indian freelancers, ensuring compliance and efficiency:
Key Highlights:
- GST Compliance: Apps like Refrens, Zoho Invoice, and Vyapar automate GST calculations, including HSN/SAC codes and e-invoicing.
- Payment Integration: Most apps support UPI, Razorpay, and other Indian payment gateways, simplifying collections.
- Automation: Features like recurring invoices, payment reminders (via WhatsApp/email), and tax reports save time.
- Free & Paid Plans: Options range from free tools (Zoho Invoice, Refrens) to premium solutions (TallyPrime, FreshBooks).
Top 10 Apps:
- Refrens: GST-ready, e-invoicing, and payment gateway integration. Free and paid plans start at ₹11,250/year.
- Zoho Invoice: Free invoicing with GST compliance and payment gateway support.
- Vyapar: GST-compliant invoicing with offline/online options. Paid plans start at ₹6,600/year.
- GimBooks: GST automation and UPI integration. Plans from ₹333/month.
- Bookipi: Simple GST invoicing with Stripe integration. Free and paid plans available.
- Invoice Maker: Basic GST invoicing with affordable paid tiers.
- myBillBook: GST billing and UPI payments. Paid plans start at ₹399/year.
- Invoicely: Multi-currency support and free basic plan.
- FreshBooks: Ideal for international freelancers; lacks full GST automation. Plans from ₹700/month.
- TallyPrime: Comprehensive GST compliance and e-invoicing. One-time purchase starts at ₹22,500.
Quick Comparison:
| App | Free Plan | GST E-Invoicing | Payment Gateways | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Refrens | Yes | Yes | Yes (UPI, Razorpay) | ₹11,250/year |
| Zoho Invoice | Yes | Yes | Yes (Razorpay) | Free |
| Vyapar | No | Yes | Yes (Multiple) | ₹6,600/year |
| GimBooks | Yes | Yes | Yes (Razorpay, UPI) | ₹333/month |
| Bookipi | Yes | Yes | Yes (Stripe) | ₹830/month |
| Invoice Maker | Yes | Basic | Limited | ₹217/month |
| myBillBook | No | Yes | Yes (Multiple) | ₹399/year |
| Invoicely | Yes | No | No | ₹750/month |
| FreshBooks | No | No | Yes (Stripe) | ₹700/month |
| TallyPrime | No | Yes | Yes (PayU, Razorpay) | ₹22,500 (one-time) |
Choose an app based on your needs – whether it’s GST compliance, payment gateway support, or affordability. Most apps offer free trials, so explore before committing.
3 BEST FREE Invoice Software for Freelancers
1. Refrens
Refrens simplifies invoicing for Indian businesses, making GST compliance and payment collections hassle-free. Trusted by over 1.5 lakh businesses across 170+ countries, the platform boasts an impressive rating of 4.8/5 from more than 11,700 users. It not only ensures GST compliance but also enhances payment collection processes.
GST-compliant Invoice Generation
Refrens automatically identifies GST components based on state details, filling in essential fields like GST Rate, HSN code, and IRN for both GST and non-GST invoices. It also automates IRN generation for e-invoicing, saving users valuable time.
“As a freelancer, Refrens’ free invoicing software has been a blessing. Pretty smooth & easy to use.”
– Linkee, Freelancer, Content Writer
In addition to compliance features, Refrens makes payment processing seamless.
Integration with Indian Payment Gateways
Refrens supports ACH, wire transfers, and card payments through shareable invoices that require just a single click. The platform offers competitive forex rates, with only a 1% difference from market rates, and ensures payouts within T+2 business days. Payment gateway fees are transparent – 1.5% for ACH or wire transfers and up to 4% for credit/debit card transactions, with no hidden charges.
Automated Tax Calculations and Payment Reminders
The platform calculates GST based on the client’s location and sends automated email reminders. Paid plans also include the option to share payment reminders via WhatsApp, adding another layer of convenience.
Free vs Paid Pricing Tiers
Refrens caters to freelancers and small businesses with a free Basic plan and two paid options: Accounts Lite, priced at ₹11,250 per year (down from ₹15,000), and Accounts, available for ₹21,250 per year (discounted from ₹28,333). These plans are designed to meet the evolving needs of users.
| Feature | Basic (Free) | Accounts Lite | Accounts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Create Documents | Limited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Remove Refrens Branding | No | Yes | Yes |
| Payment Gateway Integration | No | Yes | Yes |
| WhatsApp Sharing | No | Yes | Yes |
| Recurring Invoices | No | Yes | Yes |
| Bank Reconciliation | No | No | Yes |
| Team Members | 2 | 2 | 5 |
| Custom Fields | 50 | 100 | 150 |
Refrens stands out as a reliable tool for managing invoices while ensuring compliance with Indian tax regulations, making it a valuable asset for freelancers and businesses alike.
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2. Zoho Invoice
Zoho Invoice provides a GST-compliant invoicing solution tailored for Indian freelancers, and the best part? It’s completely free. With an impressive 4.8/5 rating, this tool is Zoho’s way of supporting small businesses and freelancers across India.
GST-compliant Invoice Generation
Managing GST can be tricky, but Zoho Invoice makes it straightforward. It automatically applies the correct taxes and formats invoices to meet GST standards.
The tool is fully equipped to handle India’s dual GST structure: SGST and CGST for transactions within a state, and IGST for those between states.
All you need to do is enter your 15-digit GSTIN, and the platform will pull in your registration details. It also lets you categorise items as either ‘Goods’ or ‘Services’ for accurate allocation of SAC/HSN codes.
If your business turnover exceeds ₹20 lakhs annually, GST registration is mandatory. However, businesses with a turnover below ₹1.5 crore (₹75 lakhs for North-Eastern states) can opt for the composition scheme.
This compliance-friendly setup works seamlessly with Zoho’s payment integration options.
Integration with Indian Payment Gateways
Zoho Invoice connects with top Indian payment gateways like Paytm and Razorpay, making it easy to receive payments. Its Zoho Payments platform, authorised as an online Payment Aggregator by the RBI in February 2025, supports UPI, over 35 net banking options, and credit/debit card payments.
“At Zoho, we strongly believe that business finance, banking, and payments should work together… With the launch of Zoho Payments today, along with B2B payment capabilities, we are able to achieve our goal.” – Sivaramakrishnan Iswaran, Global Head of Finance and Operations BU, Zoho
Zoho Payments is PCI-DSS level 1 compliant, ensuring secure transactions for both freelancers and their clients.
The transaction fees depend on the payment method: UPI transactions via Paytm are free (0%), credit card payments carry a 1.99% fee, and debit card payments under ₹2,000 are charged just 0.40%.
Free vs Paid Pricing Tiers
Zoho Invoice offers a free plan that covers most freelancers’ needs, allowing up to 1,000 invoices per year and supporting two users.
This plan includes core features like creating tax-compliant invoices, sending payment reminders, and providing a customer portal.
“Zoho Invoice is a simple and free way to manage and send clients requests for payment in addition to receiving payment.” – Forbes Advisor
For those needing advanced accounting tools or higher limits, there’s Zoho Books. This paid option starts at $15 per organization per month (when billed annually) and offers expanded features.
| Feature | Zoho Invoice (Free) | Zoho Books (Paid) |
|---|---|---|
| Invoices per year | 1,000 | Higher limits |
| Users | Up to 2 | 3+ |
| Customer Support | Email, chat, voice |
As India’s digital payment volume surged to ₹11,660 crores in 2023 from ₹3,134 crores in 2018-19, having a reliable invoicing tool with integrated payment options is no longer a luxury – it’s essential for freelancers navigating today’s fast-paced economy.
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3. Vyapar
Vyapar is a popular invoicing app, trusted by over 1 crore Indian businesses for easy and efficient bill generation.
Designed with Indian freelancers in mind, it offers both mobile and desktop versions, making invoicing convenient whether you’re at your desk or on the go.
GST-compliant Invoice Generation
Vyapar takes the hassle out of GST compliance by automatically calculating GST, ensuring that every invoice aligns with Indian tax regulations.
The app provides a variety of customisable invoice templates, including GST Invoice, Retail Invoice, Service Invoice, Wholesale Invoice, Delivery Challan, Proforma Invoice, and a Freelancer Invoice Format, catering to diverse business needs.
All you need to do is input your company and customer details, list your products or services, and add your logo and payment terms. Its user-friendly interface makes the billing process seamless.
“Vyapar has made invoicing so much easier for me. I can now generate professional invoices in seconds and send them directly to my clients. The recurring invoices feature is a huge time-saver, and the payment tracking ensures I never miss a due date. It’s a must-have for any business!” – Hema Srivatsava, Distributor
Vyapar also includes an online store feature, helping businesses expand their digital presence.
Integration with Indian Payment Gateways
Vyapar supports multiple payment methods, including cash, credit/debit cards, e-wallets, NEFT, RTGS, UPI, and QR code payments. Acting as a digital cash register, it simplifies transaction management.
The app also provides a business dashboard where you can track outstanding payments, giving you a clear picture of your cash flow. This seamless payment integration enhances Vyapar’s billing features.
Automated Tax Calculations and Payment Reminders
The app ensures timely collections by sending automated payment reminders via WhatsApp and email. With its real-time sync feature, you can monitor all billing activities as they happen, keeping you updated on transactions.
Free vs Paid Pricing Tiers
Vyapar offers a lifetime free plan for Android users. Its desktop version comes with a 7-day free trial, allowing you to explore all premium features before making a purchase.
| Feature | Silver Plan | Gold Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Companies | Up to 3 | Unlimited |
| Number of Firms | Up to 3 | Up to 5 |
| Recover Deleted Transactions | No | Yes |
| E-way Bills | 10 per month | Unlimited |
| Party-wise Profit/Loss Report | No | Yes |
The Silver Plan is priced at ₹6,600 per year (around $79.99), while the Gold Plan costs ₹9,900 per year (around $119.99). Both plans come with discounts for 3-year subscriptions – ₹14,000 for the Silver Plan and ₹20,600 for the Gold Plan. For freelancers juggling multiple clients or businesses, the Gold Plan stands out with its unlimited company creation, the ability to restore deleted transactions, and unlimited E-way Bills, making it a smart choice.
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4. GimBooks
With more than 25 lakh downloads, over 1 crore invoices generated, and 5,000+ GST returns processed, GimBooks has established itself as a dependable solution for handling Indian tax compliance needs. Designed with the Indian market in mind, it focuses on GST compliance and smoother payment processes.
GST-compliant Invoice Generation
GimBooks makes GST compliance straightforward with its invoice creation system. It automatically calculates taxes to ensure every invoice aligns with GST regulations. An inbuilt error-checking feature flags inaccuracies before invoices are sent, reducing the chances of mistakes. The app also offers customisable, industry-specific invoice templates and supports e-way bill generation for businesses transporting goods.
“The app has so many features in terms of accounting and invoicing. Anyone can start using it without any experience in Sales/Accounting Software.” – Ujjwal, Co-Founder and CTO at GimBooks
Additionally, real-time reporting ensures you stay updated on your invoicing activities.
Integration with Indian Payment Gateways
GimBooks integrates seamlessly with popular Indian payment gateways. It supports UPI payments via PhonePe, Google Pay, and Paytm, along with credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, RuPay), net banking, and wallet payments.
The app even allows UPI QR codes to be embedded directly into invoices, enabling instant payments and reducing delays. GST-compliant receipts are generated automatically, and linked bank accounts allow for instant payment reminders.
Research shows that offering four or more payment options can increase repeat orders by 42%. These features not only improve cash flow but also simplify tax management and ensure timely reminders for pending payments.
Automated Tax Calculations and Payment Reminders
GimBooks takes the hassle out of tax management with its automated GST calculation system. Since 40% of late payments are caused by invoice errors, the app’s error validation and automated reminders help minimise delays.
Notifications for due invoices are sent automatically, reducing the need for manual follow-ups. These time-saving tools are available across various pricing plans, suiting both individuals and businesses.
Free vs Paid Pricing Tiers
GimBooks offers several pricing options, including pay-per-use, pay-per-feature, monthly, annual, and lifetime plans.
| Plan Type | Monthly Cost | Billing Cycle | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premium (12 months) | ₹333/month | Annual | Standard premium features |
| Premium (36 months) | ₹222/month | 3-year commitment | Best value for long-term users |
| Premium (Lifetime) | ₹58/month | Lifetime | Lowest monthly cost |
All premium plans include unlimited invoices, quotations, documents, parties, and inventory items. They also offer priority support via calls and WhatsApp, along with advanced features like one-click e-invoice and e-way bill generation, GSTR1 and GSTR 3B filing, and detailed reporting tools.
GimBooks has received high user ratings, including 5.0/5 on Capterra, 4.8/5 on Techjockey.com (based on 20 reviews), and 3.9/5 on the Google Play Store (from over 13,000 reviews).
For freelancers or small businesses looking for a complete invoicing solution with strong GST compliance and smooth payment integration, GimBooks offers excellent value, especially with its long-term pricing plans.
5. Bookipi
Bookipi is a simple invoicing tool designed to help Indian freelancers create professional, GST-compliant invoices with ease. Its user-friendly interface and GST-specific features make it a popular choice for freelancers. Here’s a closer look at how Bookipi addresses GST compliance and payment integration needs.
GST-compliant Invoice Generation
Bookipi makes GST compliance hassle-free by allowing users to apply tax rates to individual invoices or set default tax rates in the settings. This flexibility enables freelancers to handle various tax setups – whether tax-inclusive, additional, or deductible – based on local requirements.
Each invoice generated includes all the necessary GST details, such as unique invoice numbers, supplier and customer GSTINs, HSN codes for goods, SAC codes for services, and proper segregation of CGST, SGST, and IGST, ensuring adherence to Indian tax regulations.
Integration with Indian Payment Gateways
Bookipi integrates seamlessly with Stripe, enabling Indian freelancers to accept online payments directly through their invoices. This includes payments from both domestic and international cards.
Stripe charges 2.5% for payments made with cards issued in India and 3.5% for international cards. To start accepting payments, all you need to do is enable card payments in your settings and connect your Stripe account.
Additionally, Bookipi allows you to pass credit card fees to your clients, and its automated payment reminders help keep track of unpaid invoices. This smooth payment integration makes it a strong competitor among invoicing tools for Indian freelancers.
Free vs Paid Pricing Tiers
Bookipi offers flexible pricing plans to cater to different needs:
| Plan | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free | ₹0 | ₹0 | 3 documents/month, basic features |
| Starter | ₹830/month | ₹632/month | Unlimited documents, recurring invoices |
| Professional | ₹4,330/month | ₹3,247/month | All Starter features plus unlimited eSignatures |
The free plan allows users to create up to 3 documents per month. For those needing more, the Starter plan offers unlimited invoices, estimates, and purchase orders, along with recurring invoicing and automated overdue reminders.
The Professional plan builds on this by adding unlimited eSignatures and advanced customization options. Paid plans also include premium features like enhanced invoice customisation, recurring billing, automated reminders, and the ability to add your brand logo.
Bookipi has received positive reviews, earning a 4.0/5 rating on Techjockey based on 14 ratings and 10 reviews.
“Bookipi Invoice has taken the stress out of billing my clients.” – Armen, Accountant
6. myBillBook
myBillBook is a business management tool trusted by over 1 crore Indian small businesses. Its GST-compliant billing system makes it a go-to choice for Indian freelancers who need an efficient way to manage taxes. It combines ease of use with compliance, making it a practical option for modern professionals.
GST-compliant Invoice Generation
With myBillBook, creating GST-compliant invoices is a breeze. The tool automates the process by adding GSTIN, HSN codes, and party details, while also calculating GST based on your preferences.
“Creating a GST-compliant bill is a fundamental task for businesses registered under GST. With myBillBook, generating GST bills is streamlined and ensures compliance with government regulations.” – myBillBook
You can choose from multiple GST invoicing formats to match your brand’s style. Plus, it supports advanced features like e-invoicing and e-way billing, keeping you up to date with the latest GST rules. These features simplify your invoicing process and ensure smooth payment handling.
Integration with Indian Payment Gateways
Beyond GST billing, myBillBook integrates seamlessly with popular Indian payment gateways. It supports instant UPI and QR code payments, making it especially handy for freelancers who often work on the go.
Free vs Paid Pricing Tiers
myBillBook offers a free trial, followed by a range of paid plans tailored to different needs:
| Plan | Monthly Price | Annual Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silver | ₹34 | ₹399 | 1 business, 1 user, basic invoicing |
| Diamond | ₹217 | – | Custom themes, online store, barcode scanning |
| Platinum | ₹250 | – | Desktop app, e-way bills, godown management, SMS & WhatsApp marketing |
| Enterprise | ₹417 | – | E-invoices, POS, recurring billing, Tally export |
- The Silver plan (₹399/year) is perfect for individual freelancers needing basic GST-compliant invoicing.
- The Diamond plan adds features like custom themes and an online store, helping you enhance your digital presence.
- The Platinum plan is designed for larger operations, offering tools like a desktop app, e-way billing, godown management, and integrated SMS and WhatsApp marketing.
- The Enterprise plan provides full access to all features, including e-invoicing and POS systems, making it ideal for businesses with more complex needs.
This flexible pricing ensures that myBillBook caters to everyone – from freelancers just starting out to businesses with more advanced requirements.
7. Invoicely
Invoicely is a cloud-based invoicing tool used by over 2.5 lakh small businesses worldwide. Designed with simplicity in mind, it’s particularly well-suited for Indian freelancers, offering a generous free plan and an intuitive interface that makes managing invoices hassle-free.
GST-Compliant Invoice Creation
Invoicely allows users to add taxes to individual line items or entire invoice totals, with automatic calculations to streamline GST compliance.
However, GSTIN details must be manually configured to ensure your invoices meet Indian tax regulations.
The platform also offers extensive customization options, enabling you to design professional invoices that include all mandatory GST elements – such as supplier and client addresses, unique invoice numbers, and detailed tax breakdowns.
These features not only ensure compliance but also help maintain a polished, professional image for your business.
Integration with Indian Payment Gateways
Invoicely goes beyond invoicing by simplifying payments. It integrates with popular payment gateways like PayPal, Stripe, Authorize.net, and Mollie, allowing clients to pay invoices directly.
Importantly, the platform doesn’t charge extra transaction fees beyond what the payment gateway itself applies. For Indian freelancers working with global clients, the multi-currency billing feature is a big plus. This can be easily configured within the Business Settings.
Free and Paid Plans
Invoicely offers a range of pricing tiers, catering to freelancers and businesses of various sizes:
| Plan | Monthly Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Free | ₹0 | 5 monthly invoices, 3 saved clients, multi-currency billing |
| Basic | ₹830 | 100 monthly invoices, 25 saved clients, online payments, time tracking |
| Professional | ₹1,660 | 250 monthly invoices, 100 saved clients, 10 team members |
| Enterprise | ₹2,490 | Unlimited invoices and clients, up to 25 team members, full branding |
The free plan is particularly appealing for freelancers, as it includes multi-currency billing. Here’s what one user shared:
“As a freelancer I use its free version to create invoices to send my clients. It allows me to create custom invoices as well as use prebuilt templates.” – Pavan J., Information Technology and Services, self-employed
On Capterra, Invoicely boasts an impressive 4.6/5 star rating based on 198 user reviews. Users frequently highlight its affordability and ease of use, though some have noted the absence of a dedicated mobile app for invoicing on the go.
8. FreshBooks
FreshBooks is a globally recognised accounting tool that caters to Indian freelancers, especially those handling international clients. It’s designed to simplify invoicing for freelancers working both locally and internationally.
GST-Compliant Invoice Generation
FreshBooks provides basic GST settings, allowing users to configure tax rates for automatic calculations. You can also include a VAT/Tax ID on invoices to maintain manual GST compliance.
However, it’s worth noting that FreshBooks doesn’t automate GSTR reporting or integrate with India’s Invoice Registration Portal (IRP), meaning domestic compliance needs to be managed manually. On the bright side, its seamless payment integration makes invoicing and receiving payments much easier.
Integration with Indian Payment Gateways
FreshBooks supports key payment gateways that are widely used by Indian freelancers. It integrates with platforms like Razorpay and Stripe, enabling payments via credit cards, Apple Pay, and bank transfers with clear fee structures.
Additionally, FreshBooks Payments allows clients to pay directly through invoices, claiming to help users get paid twice as fast. Freelancers can also create checkout links to share on websites or social media for quick payments. Here’s a breakdown of transaction fees:
- Credit Cards: 2.9% + ₹25 per transaction
- AMEX: 3.5% + ₹25 per transaction
- Bank Transfers (ACH): 1%
Free vs Paid Pricing Tiers
FreshBooks offers flexible pricing plans to suit different needs, starting with a 30-day free trial that doesn’t require a credit card. Post-trial, users can choose from four pricing tiers:
| Plan | Monthly Price (60% off for 4 months) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Lite | ₹700 | Up to 5 billable clients, unlimited invoices, expense tracking, tax reports |
| Plus | ₹1,270 | Up to 50 billable clients, financial reports, mobile receipt capture, accountant access |
| Premium | ₹2,170 | Unlimited billable clients, advanced customisation, enhanced reporting |
| Select | Custom pricing | Dedicated phone support, advanced branding, enterprise features |
The Lite plan is ideal for freelancers just starting out with a small client base of up to five. For Indian freelancers who frequently work with international clients and seek a polished user experience, FreshBooks is an excellent choice. However, it’s important to keep in mind the extra manual effort required for domestic GST compliance.
9. TallyPrime
Wrapping things up, TallyPrime stands out as a powerful tool tailored to meet the GST compliance needs and payment integration requirements of Indian freelancers.
TallyPrime is designed specifically for the Indian market, offering features that simplify invoicing and tax management, making it a go-to choice for freelancers tackling complex tax scenarios.
GST-Compliant Invoice Generation
TallyPrime makes creating GST-compliant invoices a breeze, completing the process in just seconds. It supports multiple invoice types, such as tax invoices, bills of supply, and SEZ invoices, ensuring flexibility for various client demands.
The software automatically identifies the supply type and tax rate, covering intra-state and inter-state transactions, exports, imports, and reverse charge cases. Additionally, it generates e-invoices and e-way bills, capturing all necessary details like the IRN.
To speed up data entry, users can pre-define voucher templates, while built-in analytics flag errors and suggest corrections. For smooth e-invoicing, ensure your TallyPrime software is updated, your GSTIN is entered correctly, and you have a stable internet connection.
These GST features integrate seamlessly with TallyPrime’s payment collection tools.
Integration with Indian Payment Gateways
TallyPrime connects with popular payment gateways like PayU and RazorPay, allowing users to generate and share payment links or QR codes via email, SMS, or UPI. Shubham Sinha from Tally Solutions highlights this feature:
“TallyPrime now includes payment via UPI capabilities, which allows you to quickly produce and exchange payment links and QR codes instantly. Thus, making your payment collections process smoother and reducing your days sales outstanding.”
The software also simplifies reconciliation by importing transaction data from these gateways and enabling payment link generation directly from accounting reports, such as outstanding reports.
Free vs Paid Pricing Tiers
TallyPrime operates entirely on paid plans, offering all features across its tiers. As Tally Solutions explains:
“No. All plans come with a complete range of features. No matter which plan you choose, you get access to all the features you need to manage your business efficiently.”
You can choose between perpetual licenses (one-time purchase) or subscription plans, available in two main editions:
| Edition | One-time Purchase | Monthly Subscription | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| TallyPrime Silver (Single User) | ₹22,500 + 18% GST | ₹750 + 18% GST | Individual freelancers using one PC |
| TallyPrime Gold (Multi-User) | ₹67,500 + 18% GST | ₹2,250 + 18% GST | Freelancers with teams or multiple devices |
TallyPrime has earned a 4.6/5 rating from 396 reviews, with users applauding its GST compliance, speed, and user-friendly reporting tools.
Feature Comparison Table
Here’s a side-by-side look at the essential features of popular invoice management apps. This table helps you quickly evaluate and compare options to find the best fit for your business needs.
| App Name | Free Plan | Paid Plan Starting Price | GST E-Invoicing (IRP) | Indian Payment Gateways | Mobile App | Data Security | India Readiness (out of 5) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Refrens | Yes (50 docs/year) | ₹3,900/year | Yes | Yes (Cashfree/UPI) | Android & iOS | Bank-grade encryption | 5 |
| Zoho Invoice | Yes | ₹1,499/month | Yes (In Suite) | Yes (Razorpay) | Android & iOS | SSL encryption, 2FA | 5 |
| Vyapar | No (7-day trial) | ₹3,239/year | Yes | Yes (Multiple gateways) | Android & iOS | Cloud backup, encryption | 4.5 |
| GimBooks | Yes (Limited) | ₹599/month | Yes | Yes (Razorpay, UPI) | Android & iOS | Data encryption | 4.5 |
| Bookipi | Yes (5 clients) | ₹1,899/year | Yes | Yes (Razorpay) | Android & iOS | SSL security | 4.5 |
| myBillBook | No (15-day trial) | ₹217/month | Yes | Yes (Multiple) | Android & iOS | Cloud security | 4 |
| Invoicely | Yes (3 clients) | ₹750/month | No | No (Via 3rd Party) | Android & iOS | SSL encryption | 2.5 |
| FreshBooks | No (30-day trial) | ₹1,200/month | No | No (Via 3rd Party) | Android & iOS | Bank-level security | 2.5 |
| TallyPrime | No | ₹22,500 (one-time) | Yes | Yes (PayU, RazorPay) | Desktop only | Advanced security | 4.5 |
Key Insights
- GST Compliance Leaders: Refrens and Zoho Invoice score a perfect 5/5 for their alignment with India’s GST regulations and payment standards, making them top choices for businesses prioritising compliance.
- Pricing Spectrum: If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, myBillBook starts at ₹217/month. On the other end, TallyPrime offers a one-time purchase model at ₹22,500, ideal for those seeking a long-term solution without recurring costs.
- Payment Integration: Apps like Refrens, Zoho Invoice, and Vyapar offer seamless integration with Indian payment gateways like Razorpay and UPI. In contrast, global apps such as Invoicely and FreshBooks rely on third-party solutions, which might not be as efficient for local businesses.
- Mobile Accessibility: Except for TallyPrime, all apps provide mobile support, ensuring you can manage invoices anytime, anywhere. TallyPrime’s desktop-only design caters more to full-scale accounting needs rather than mobile convenience.
When choosing the right app, balance your budget, technical needs, and future growth plans. Apps with higher India readiness scores are better equipped to handle the unique financial and regulatory requirements of Indian freelancers and businesses.
Conclusion
Picking the right invoice management app can completely transform how you handle your freelance finances. The apps we’ve explored here provide solid tools for GST compliance and help ensure timely payments.
By automating tasks like recurring invoices for retainer clients or setting up payment reminders, you can save valuable hours. This means less time chasing payments or stressing over taxes and more time focusing on your core work.
For freelancers just starting out, options like Refrens and Zoho Invoice come with free plans that cover all the essentials. If your needs are more complex – like handling bulk invoicing or working with international clients – paid plans unlock advanced features such as detailed reporting and priority customer support. Check the feature comparison table above to find the best fit for your requirements.
Think about what matters most to you: GST compliance, integration with payment gateways, mobile-friendly access, or support for multiple currencies. Most apps offer free trials, so take advantage of those. And if you prefer support in Hindi or other regional languages, many providers cater to that as well.
Whether you lean toward a desktop-focused option like TallyPrime or prefer a mobile-friendly tool like Vyapar, the solutions we’ve covered here are designed to simplify your financial management. They’ll not only make billing easier but also help you build a more organised and sustainable freelance business.
FAQs
What features should Indian freelancers prioritise in an invoice management app?
When selecting an invoice management app, Indian freelancers should focus on tools that offer GST-compliant invoice generation, automated tax calculations, and seamless integration with Indian payment gateways. These features simplify payment processes and ensure compliance with tax regulations.
It’s also helpful to choose apps with payment reminders, multi-currency support, and expense tracking integration to make financial management more efficient. Features like client management, mobile app accessibility, and e-invoice compatibility add extra convenience and flexibility.
To ensure a hassle-free experience, look for apps that provide strong data security, API support for automation, backup/export options, and customer support in Indian languages. These features can make a big difference in managing your business finances effectively.×
How do invoice management apps help Indian freelancers stay GST-compliant?
Managing GST compliance can be a hassle for Indian freelancers, but invoice management apps make it much easier. These tools automatically create GST-compliant invoices with precise tax calculations, and many even support e-invoicing integration for a smoother process.
Beyond just invoicing, these apps generate detailed GST reports to help with filing and reconciliation, keeping everything aligned with Indian tax regulations.
Some apps go a step further by automating GST return submissions, sending deadline reminders, and tracking both taxable and non-taxable transactions.
By cutting down on manual work, these apps free up freelancers to concentrate on their projects without worrying about compliance.
What advantages do Indian freelancers get by integrating payment gateways with invoicing apps?
Integrating Indian payment gateways with invoicing apps brings a range of advantages for freelancers. First, it streamlines the payment process, making transactions faster and more straightforward.
With support for multiple payment methods, it caters to diverse client preferences and ensures quicker cash flow through efficient processing. For freelancers dealing with international clients, the inclusion of multi-currency support makes managing payments in different currencies a breeze.
Another major perk is the emphasis on data security, ensuring all transactions remain safe and trustworthy. On top of that, these integrations offer added convenience with features like automated payment tracking and reminders. This not only reduces the time spent on manual follow-ups but also boosts overall productivity.
Ayush Gupta is an entrepreneur and SEO consultant with over a decade of experience helping businesses grow. As the founder of Visibility Ventures, he combines technical expertise with practical financial knowledge to guide readers through credit cards, investments, and tax optimization. He holds certifications in Entrepreneurship and Business Laws from NUJS Kolkata and regularly advises companies on digital growth strategies.
