Tech Invoice Template

Free API Developer Invoice Template

Invoice clients for REST/GraphQL API development, third-party integrations, and API documentation. Professional invoices from Tidybill.

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What is an API Developer invoice?

An API developer invoice covers work designing, building, and documenting application programming interfaces that allow different software systems to communicate. API developers build REST or GraphQL APIs, integrate third-party services (payment gateways, CRMs, shipping APIs), implement webhook systems, and create the data interchange layer that powers modern software. API work is a common component of larger software projects, but it is also frequently commissioned as a standalone engagement when a business needs to expose its data to partners, build an integration with a third-party platform, or create a backend for a mobile app. Invoices should describe the specific endpoints or integrations built, the authentication mechanism implemented, and any documentation produced. API documentation (OpenAPI/Swagger specs) is a distinct billable deliverable.

What to include on an API Developer invoice

Common api developer invoice line items

Service Typical Rate Unit
API development (hourly) 75 hour
REST API build 2000 project
Third-party API integration 600 integration
GraphQL API development 2500 project
API documentation (OpenAPI spec) 500 project
Webhook implementation and testing 400 project

How to invoice as an api developer

For API builds, invoice on completion of agreed endpoint set. For large API projects, invoice at milestones: authentication and core CRUD endpoints, business logic endpoints, integrations, documentation and testing complete. List each integration as a separate line item with the third-party service named. Include API documentation as a separate deliverable with its own line item so clients value it appropriately.

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Frequently asked questions

Should I charge for API documentation separately?
Yes. OpenAPI/Swagger documentation is valuable, takes time to produce well, and deserves its own line item. Clients who try to skip documentation often regret it later.
How do I price API integrations versus new API builds?
New API builds are priced by endpoint complexity and number. Integrations with third-party APIs are priced per integration, factoring in the complexity of the third-party's API, authentication requirements, and testing needed.
What if a third-party API changes and breaks the integration?
Third-party API changes are outside your control. Your contract should define a maintenance period after delivery during which you fix bugs. For ongoing API stability, offer a maintenance retainer.
How do I handle API rate limits on client projects?
If third-party API costs or rate limits are a project constraint, document this in the contract. If the client's usage exceeds plan limits, the resulting upgrade costs are the client's responsibility.
Do I need to charge VAT on API development work?
Yes, if UK-registered and above the VAT threshold. API development is a software service subject to standard 20% VAT. For international clients, different rules apply depending on whether the client is business or consumer.
Can I use this template for free?
Yes. Tidybill's free plan lets you create up to 5 invoices per month at no cost, with no credit card required. You can use the API Developer invoice template straight away after signing up.