Professional Accounting Invoice Template - Free Download

Professional Accounting & Bookkeeping Invoice Templates

Get paid faster with professional accounting invoices created in under 30 seconds. Whether you’re billing for tax preparation, monthly bookkeeping, financial statement preparation, or advisory services, InvoiceZap’s accounting-specific templates include the line items and engagement structures that CPAs, accountants, and bookkeepers rely on.

Why Accounting Professionals Choose InvoiceZap

Bill Immediately After Completing Work: Finish a client’s quarterly review? Invoice from your iPad before leaving their office. No more delayed billing cycles eating into your cash flow.

Engagement-Based Templates: Structure invoices for fixed-fee engagements, hourly billing, or monthly retainers—all on the same professional format.

Professional Credibility: Your invoice is a reflection of your attention to detail. A polished, well-organized invoice reinforces the precision clients expect from their accountant.

Client-Specific Tracking: Save client information for recurring invoices—monthly bookkeeping, quarterly tax payments, annual returns.

Typical Accounting Services & Rates

Rates vary significantly by location, firm size, and client complexity. CPA firms typically command 20-40% higher rates than non-credentialed bookkeepers.

Accounting Billing Models

Fixed-Fee Engagements: Quote a set price for defined services (e.g., “Annual tax preparation: $350”). Clients appreciate price certainty. Best for routine work with predictable scope.

Hourly Billing: Bill at your standard hourly rate. Essential for advisory work, complex returns, or when scope is uncertain. Track time carefully and provide detailed descriptions.

Monthly Retainers: Offer bundled services for a fixed monthly fee (e.g., “$500/month for bookkeeping, bank reconciliation, and monthly financial statements”). Provides predictable income and strengthens client relationships.

Value-Based Pricing: For high-impact work like tax savings strategies or business restructuring, price based on value delivered rather than time spent.

Engagement Structure Best Practices

• Engagement Letter Reference: Include engagement letter number on invoices
• Scope Clarity: Clearly describe what services the invoice covers
• Period Covered: For ongoing services, specify the period (e.g., “Q4 2025 Bookkeeping”)
• Additional Fees: Separately itemize rush fees, complexity adjustments, or out-of-scope work
• Retainer Balance: For retainer clients, show how hours/services were applied

Professional Requirements on Invoices

For CPAs:

• CPA license number and state
• Firm name and registration
• PTIN (Preparer Tax Identification Number) when billing for tax work

For All Accountants:

• Business entity information
• Professional credentials (EA, CMA, etc.)
• Insurance and bonding references (if applicable)

Tax Considerations for Accountants

• Professional Services: Generally exempt from sales tax in most states
• Quarterly Estimates: Set aside 25-30% for self-employment taxes
• CPE Expenses: Continuing professional education is fully deductible
• Professional Insurance: E&O insurance premiums are business expenses
• Software: QuickBooks, tax prep software, and practice management tools are deductible

Getting Started

1. Download InvoiceZap - Available for iPhone, iPad, and Mac
2. Set Up Your Business Profile - Add your credentials, license numbers, and firm branding
3. Create Engagement Templates - Save standard services with typical pricing
4. Create Your First Invoice - Generate a professional PDF in under 30 seconds

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I bill hourly or fixed-fee for tax returns? Fixed-fee is preferred by most clients and simplifies your billing. Base your fee on return complexity (W-2 only vs. Schedule C, rentals, K-1s, etc.). Use hourly billing for unusual situations or first-time clients where scope is uncertain.

What payment terms are standard for accounting services? NET 15 or NET 30 is common. Many CPAs require payment before delivering final tax returns (especially e-filed returns). For large engagements like audits, bill in stages: planning, fieldwork, completion.

How do I invoice for monthly bookkeeping retainers? Create a recurring invoice on the same day each month. Include a brief summary of work performed (transactions processed, accounts reconciled) even though it’s a fixed fee. This demonstrates ongoing value.

Should I charge for client questions and phone calls? For hourly clients, yes—bill in 6-minute increments. For fixed-fee or retainer clients, include reasonable support in your fee. Document when calls exceed reasonable scope to justify additional billing.

How do I handle rush fees during tax season? Add a separate line item for “Rush Preparation Fee” or “Priority Processing.” Common rates: 25-50% premium for returns needed within 48-72 hours. Document the request date and delivery deadline.

Accountant-Specific Features

Engagement Tracking: Reference engagement letters and link invoices to specific service agreements.

Credential Display: Prominently show CPA license, PTIN, and other professional designations.

Period Specification: Clearly note the fiscal period or tax year covered by each invoice.

Retainer Management: Track retainer balances and show how hours or services were applied.

Multi-Client Billing: Efficiently generate invoices for your full client roster.

Ready to streamline your accounting practice billing? Download InvoiceZap and create your first professional accounting invoice today.

InvoiceZap - Professional invoicing made simple for CPAs, accountants, and bookkeeping professionals.