Free Retainer vs Hourly Invoice Calculator
Use this calculator when you are deciding whether to invoice a client by the hour or offer a monthly retainer instead.
Why this page exists
Compare an hourly billing total against a fixed monthly retainer to see which invoice amount makes more sense.
Built for real invoice workflows
If you settle on the retainer, InvoiceAgent can schedule the invoice automatically every month.
Hourly total
$2,400.00
Retainer
$2,500.00
Difference
$100.00
How to use it
Enter your hourly rate and expected hours for the month.
Add the retainer amount you are considering.
Compare the hourly total, the retainer amount, and the difference between them.
Why it helps
Useful for consultants and agencies shaping recurring client offers.
Makes pricing conversations easier before the invoice is drafted.
Helps you spot whether a retainer meaningfully covers expected effort.
From free tool to live invoice workflow.
Once your numbers and dates look right, InvoiceAgent can create the scheduled invoice, generate the PDF, send reminder emails, and dispatch it with live FX conversion at send time.
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Move from the quick answer into the rest of the invoice system.
Recurring billing
Recurring billing
Compare pricing models, then move into recurring invoice systems built for monthly client work.
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Invoice software for consultants
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Invoice templates
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Use the result inside invoice formats that are ready for clients and easier to automate.
Knowledge base
Knowledge base
Review the billing concepts behind the numbers before they go onto a live invoice.
Profession pages
Profession pages
See how freelancers, consultants, and agencies apply the same calculator output in different workflows.