What to include on a mobile app development invoice
Match invoices to milestones
Name the milestone and its acceptance criteria, such as "MVP build approved in TestFlight", so payment follows sign-off naturally.
Split platforms when needed
If iOS and Android were built separately, list them separately. It explains cost differences and helps clients prioritize.
Include store submission work
Screenshots, metadata, review rejections and resubmission take real time. Give them their own line.
Flag ongoing service costs
Push notifications, analytics, crash reporting and hosting often carry monthly fees. Make it clear who pays them after launch.
Example mobile app development line items
These sample entries show how to describe mobile app development work clearly. Rates are illustrative only; use your own pricing.
| Description | Qty | Rate | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Milestone 2: iOS and Android MVP build (React Native) | 1 | $9,500.00 | $9,500.00 |
| Backend API and database setup | 1 | $3,200.00 | $3,200.00 |
| UI design for additional screens | 6 | $250.00 | $1,500.00 |
| Device testing and TestFlight beta management (hours) | 10 | $90.00 | $900.00 |
| App Store and Google Play submission | 1 | $400.00 | $400.00 |
| Subtotal | $15,500.00 | ||
Payment terms for mobile app development invoices
Our suggestion: 25% deposit, then payments on each milestone acceptance, Net 7.
Sample terms you can paste into the invoice: “Change requests outside the approved scope are estimated and billed separately. Store developer accounts are owned by the client. Source code is transferred upon payment of the final milestone.”
Not sure what Net 15 or 2/10 Net 30 mean? Payment terms explained.
Mobile App Development invoice FAQ
How are app development projects usually billed?
Commonly with a deposit followed by milestone payments for design, MVP build, beta and launch. Agile teams may bill per sprint instead. Choose a structure that ties payment to visible progress.
Who should own the App Store developer account?
Best practice is for the client to own their Apple and Google developer accounts and add you as a team member. It avoids painful app transfers later. Note this in your terms.
Should maintenance be included in the app price?
Usually not. OS updates and new device sizes require ongoing work, so many developers offer a separate monthly maintenance plan. List it as a recurring line when the client opts in.