Definition
A timesheet is a record of the hours a person worked, broken down by date, client, project, or task. Freelancers, agencies, and contractors use timesheets to calculate billable hours for an invoice and to show the client how the billed time was spent, often attaching the timesheet as supporting detail.
Also called: Time sheet, Time log, Time report
Timesheet in practice
A useful timesheet records the date, start and end time or total duration, the client and project, and a short description of the work. Separate billable from non-billable time so the invoice only carries chargeable hours.
Many clients, especially larger companies and staffing agencies, require an approved timesheet before they will pay an hourly invoice. Get the client's sign-off on the timesheet first to avoid disputes over hours later.
Keep timesheets even after payment. They support your invoices if a client questions a charge and help you price similar projects more accurately.
Example
A contract developer logs 38.5 hours in a week across three tasks. The client's manager approves the timesheet on Friday, and the developer invoices 38.5 hours at $95 per hour for $3,657.50.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I attach a timesheet to every invoice?
Attach one when the client asks for it or when you bill by the hour for a new client. A summary of hours by task on the invoice is often enough for long-standing clients.
How should I round time on a timesheet?
Pick one rule, such as rounding to the nearest 6 or 15 minutes, state it in your contract, and apply it consistently. Rounding every entry up can look padded to a client.
Related terms
- Billable hours Billable hours are the hours of work that can be charged to a client under the terms of an engagement, as opposed to non-billable time spent on administration, marketing, or internal tasks.
- Hourly rate An hourly rate is the price charged for one hour of work.
- Time tracking Time tracking is the practice of recording how long you spend on each client, project, and task, so hourly work can be billed accurately and project costs can be measured.
- Time and materials Time and materials (T&M) is a pricing arrangement in which the client pays for the actual hours worked at agreed rates plus the actual cost of materials, often with a markup.
This page is for general information only and is not legal, tax, or financial advice. Rules change and vary by location, so consult a qualified lawyer or accountant about your situation.