Milestone Invoice Template
A free milestone invoice template for stage payments. List each stage with its percentage and download the PDF.
The items and amounts below are examples of this billing style. Customize with your details, then download as PDF or Excel directly from the generator below.
Milestone billing spreads a project fee over stages. The client pays as results appear, and you are not waiting until the end to be paid. This template starts with two stages and a note about the last one.
Setting milestones that work
- Tie each stage to a clear, checkable outcome.
- Give each a percentage of the total, and make sure they add up to 100%.
- Put the milestones in your quote so the client has agreed them before the first invoice.
On each invoice
- Name the milestone and its percentage in the line description.
- Mention which milestones are already paid, and what is next.
- Keep the due date short for stage invoices. They are smaller and expected.
Alternatives
Starting with a smaller upfront payment? Use the deposit invoice template. Billing a flat project fee once? The fixed price invoice template is simpler.
Frequently asked questions
How do I split a project into milestones?
Tie each payment to something the client can see and approve, such as a design signed off or a feature delivered, and agree the percentages before work starts.
Should I invoice at the start of a milestone or the end?
Invoice when the milestone is reached, unless the contract says otherwise. Mention the approval in the invoice notes.
What if a milestone changes?
Update the agreement in writing first, then invoice the new amount. Do not change milestones silently on an invoice.