A recurring invoice is an invoice that automatically generates on a fixed schedule (weekly, monthly, quarterly, annually) for the same amount, sent to the same client. Used for retainers, subscriptions, ongoing services, and any predictable repeat billing. This guide covers when recurring invoices make sense, the difference vs subscriptions, how to set them up, what to include, handling rate changes, and common mistakes.
A recurring invoice is sent on a schedule and the client manually pays each one. A subscription auto-charges a stored payment method on the same schedule.
Technically you can adjust the amount each cycle, but at that point it's just a regular invoice issued on a schedule — not a true recurring invoice.
Yes — every invoice issued, recurring or one-off, must have its own unique sequential number.
Yes, with notice. Standard practice is to give 30-60 days notice before a rate increase takes effect.
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