Definition
A recurring invoice is an invoice that is generated automatically on a fixed schedule, such as monthly or annually, with the same client, line items, and terms each time. It is used for retainers, subscriptions, hosting, maintenance plans, rent, and any service billed at a regular interval.
Also called: Subscription invoice, Repeat invoice
Recurring invoice in practice
Recurring invoices save time and improve cash flow because they go out on the same day every cycle without anyone remembering to create them. Each generated invoice still gets its own unique invoice number and due date.
Set the schedule to match the service period and state the period on the invoice, for example "Hosting, April 2026", so the client can reconcile it easily.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a recurring invoice and a subscription?
A subscription is the commercial arrangement; a recurring invoice is the billing document generated for each period of that subscription. One subscription produces many recurring invoices.