Quick Overview
- 1#1: Procore - Comprehensive construction management platform with advanced tools for progress billing, AIA forms, retainage, and financial reporting.
- 2#2: Buildertrend - Cloud-based project management software offering seamless client invoicing, change order billing, and daily financial tracking for construction projects.
- 3#3: Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate - Robust ERP system tailored for construction accounting, including job cost billing, multi-company invoicing, and compliance with industry standards.
- 4#4: Foundation - Dedicated construction accounting software providing precise job costing, progress billing, and accounts payable/receivable management.
- 5#5: Knowify - Modern construction operations platform focused on automated billing, job costing, subcontractor payments, and lien waiver management.
- 6#6: Trimble Viewpoint - Enterprise construction ERP with integrated billing modules for large-scale projects, including retainage tracking and AIA billing.
- 7#7: Autodesk Construction Cloud - Unified platform for construction workflows featuring billing automation, cost management, and integration with Autodesk design tools.
- 8#8: CMiC - Full-suite construction ERP software delivering project billing, revenue recognition, and financial forecasting for complex contracts.
- 9#9: Deltek ComputerEase - Cloud construction accounting solution emphasizing job billing, overhead allocation, and customizable invoicing for mid-sized firms.
- 10#10: eSUB - Cloud-based trade contractor software with tools for timecard billing, subcontract management, and mobile invoice approvals.
These tools were evaluated based on key industry needs: robust billing features (including progress, AIA, and retainage management), integration capabilities, user-friendliness, and value across firm sizes, ensuring relevance for both small teams and enterprise operations.
Comparison Table
Managing construction billing efficiently requires tailored software, and this comparison table explores top tools like Procore, Buildertrend, Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate, Foundation, Knowify, and others. It highlights key features, pricing structures, and usability to help readers identify the best fit for their project accounting needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Procore Comprehensive construction management platform with advanced tools for progress billing, AIA forms, retainage, and financial reporting. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Buildertrend Cloud-based project management software offering seamless client invoicing, change order billing, and daily financial tracking for construction projects. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate Robust ERP system tailored for construction accounting, including job cost billing, multi-company invoicing, and compliance with industry standards. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Foundation Dedicated construction accounting software providing precise job costing, progress billing, and accounts payable/receivable management. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 5 | Knowify Modern construction operations platform focused on automated billing, job costing, subcontractor payments, and lien waiver management. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 6 | Trimble Viewpoint Enterprise construction ERP with integrated billing modules for large-scale projects, including retainage tracking and AIA billing. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 7 | Autodesk Construction Cloud Unified platform for construction workflows featuring billing automation, cost management, and integration with Autodesk design tools. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 8 | CMiC Full-suite construction ERP software delivering project billing, revenue recognition, and financial forecasting for complex contracts. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 9 | Deltek ComputerEase Cloud construction accounting solution emphasizing job billing, overhead allocation, and customizable invoicing for mid-sized firms. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 10 | eSUB Cloud-based trade contractor software with tools for timecard billing, subcontract management, and mobile invoice approvals. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.0/10 |
Comprehensive construction management platform with advanced tools for progress billing, AIA forms, retainage, and financial reporting.
Cloud-based project management software offering seamless client invoicing, change order billing, and daily financial tracking for construction projects.
Robust ERP system tailored for construction accounting, including job cost billing, multi-company invoicing, and compliance with industry standards.
Dedicated construction accounting software providing precise job costing, progress billing, and accounts payable/receivable management.
Modern construction operations platform focused on automated billing, job costing, subcontractor payments, and lien waiver management.
Enterprise construction ERP with integrated billing modules for large-scale projects, including retainage tracking and AIA billing.
Unified platform for construction workflows featuring billing automation, cost management, and integration with Autodesk design tools.
Full-suite construction ERP software delivering project billing, revenue recognition, and financial forecasting for complex contracts.
Cloud construction accounting solution emphasizing job billing, overhead allocation, and customizable invoicing for mid-sized firms.
Cloud-based trade contractor software with tools for timecard billing, subcontract management, and mobile invoice approvals.
Procore
enterpriseComprehensive construction management platform with advanced tools for progress billing, AIA forms, retainage, and financial reporting.
Automated progress billing that syncs directly with on-site progress, schedules, and commitments for lien-waiver-ready invoices
Procore is a comprehensive cloud-based construction management platform with robust billing and invoicing tools tailored for the construction industry. It automates AIA billing forms, manages payment applications, retainage, and change orders while integrating real-time project data for accurate progress tracking. The software ensures compliance with industry standards and streamlines AP/AR processes through seamless accounting integrations. As a top-ranked solution, it excels in end-to-end financial workflows for complex projects.
Pros
- Comprehensive AIA-compliant billing with automated Schedule of Values (SOV) tracking
- Real-time integration of field data, schedules, and costs for precise invoicing
- Strong integrations with major accounting systems like QuickBooks, Sage, and ERP solutions
Cons
- High pricing can be prohibitive for small contractors or billing-only needs
- Steep learning curve due to the platform's extensive feature set
- Customization and setup require significant initial time investment
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms and general contractors managing multiple complex projects who need integrated billing with full project management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $5,400/year for basic plans, scaling to $10,000+ annually based on users, projects, and modules.
Buildertrend
specializedCloud-based project management software offering seamless client invoicing, change order billing, and daily financial tracking for construction projects.
Integrated Change Order workflow that automatically updates budgets, schedules, and invoices in real-time
Buildertrend is a comprehensive construction management platform with robust billing features designed specifically for builders and contractors. It streamlines invoicing, progress billing, AIA forms, change orders, retainage management, and online payments through a centralized dashboard. The software integrates billing seamlessly with project scheduling, budgeting, and client portals, enabling accurate financial tracking and faster payments.
Pros
- Comprehensive billing tools including AIA-compliant progress billing and retainage handling
- Seamless integrations with QuickBooks, Xero, and payment processors for efficient workflows
- Client portal for self-service invoice viewing, approvals, and online payments
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for solo operators or very small teams
- Steep initial learning curve due to extensive feature set
- Some reporting customizations locked behind higher-tier plans
Best For
Mid-sized construction companies and general contractors seeking an all-in-one solution with advanced billing tied to project management.
Pricing
Starts at $299/month for Essentials (1 user, core features); Pro ($399+/month) and Premier ($799+/month) add advanced tools; scales with users and custom enterprise options.
Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate
enterpriseRobust ERP system tailored for construction accounting, including job cost billing, multi-company invoicing, and compliance with industry standards.
Advanced multi-tier progress billing with automatic retainage and lien waiver integration
Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate is a robust ERP solution designed specifically for construction and real estate firms, offering comprehensive tools for project management, accounting, and billing. It excels in handling complex construction billing processes, including progress billing, retainage management, AIA billing forms, change orders, and multi-tier subcontractor billing. The software integrates seamlessly with job costing and financials to ensure accurate invoicing and cash flow management across multiple projects.
Pros
- Powerful construction-specific billing features like AIA forms and retainage handling
- Deep integration with job costing, accounting, and project management
- Customizable reporting and compliance tools for industry standards
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to its comprehensive and complex interface
- High implementation and customization costs
- Less intuitive for small teams or simple billing needs
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms and real estate developers requiring an all-in-one ERP with advanced, industry-specific billing capabilities.
Pricing
Custom pricing based on modules, users, and deployment (cloud or on-premise); typically $10,000+ annually for mid-sized setups, with quotes required.
Foundation
specializedDedicated construction accounting software providing precise job costing, progress billing, and accounts payable/receivable management.
Automated AIA billing with built-in G702/703 form generation and certified payroll compliance
Foundation by Foundation Software is a robust construction accounting platform tailored for contractors, specializing in job costing, progress billing, and financial management. It excels in handling complex billing scenarios like AIA forms (G702/703), retainage, change orders, and certified payroll. The software integrates accounting with project data for real-time financial insights, supporting both on-premise and cloud deployments via Foundation CONNECT.
Pros
- Deep construction-specific billing tools including AIA forms and retainage management
- Powerful job costing with variance analysis and forecasting
- Extensive reporting and customizable dashboards for financial oversight
Cons
- Dated interface with a steeper learning curve compared to modern SaaS options
- Complex setup and implementation requiring training or consultants
- Pricing can be prohibitive for very small firms without scalable entry tiers
Best For
Mid-sized general contractors and specialty trades needing advanced job costing and compliant billing for multi-phase projects.
Pricing
Quote-based; modular licensing starts around $175/user/month for core accounting and billing, with annual costs often $10,000+ depending on users and add-ons.
Knowify
specializedModern construction operations platform focused on automated billing, job costing, subcontractor payments, and lien waiver management.
Automated one-click invoicing and payments directly from QuickBooks data
Knowify is a cloud-based construction management software tailored for contractors, emphasizing job costing, invoicing, and project financials. It supports progress billing, AIA forms, time & materials billing, and seamless QuickBooks integration for accurate financial tracking. The platform also includes scheduling, purchase orders, and a mobile app to streamline field operations and ensure real-time profitability insights.
Pros
- Seamless QuickBooks integration for effortless accounting sync
- Robust billing options including AIA, progress, and T&M invoicing
- Real-time job costing and mobile access for field teams
Cons
- Higher pricing may deter very small contractors
- Initial learning curve for non-tech-savvy users
- Reporting customization could be more flexible
Best For
Small to mid-sized construction companies seeking integrated billing, job costing, and QuickBooks compatibility to boost profitability.
Pricing
Starts at $149/month for Essentials (up to 5 users), $299/month for Pro, and custom Enterprise pricing; billed annually with a free trial.
Trimble Viewpoint
enterpriseEnterprise construction ERP with integrated billing modules for large-scale projects, including retainage tracking and AIA billing.
Sophisticated retainage and progress billing automation tied directly to real-time job costs and change orders
Trimble Viewpoint is a comprehensive ERP platform designed for construction companies, offering robust billing solutions that handle progress billing, AIA forms, retainage, and change order management. It integrates seamlessly with job costing, accounting, and project management tools to streamline financial workflows for general contractors and subcontractors. Primarily available as on-premise (Spectrum/Vista) or cloud-based options, it supports complex, multi-project billing environments.
Pros
- Powerful billing engine with support for AIA G702/703 forms and retainage tracking
- Deep integration with Trimble's field management and estimating tools
- Scalable for enterprise-level construction firms with multi-company capabilities
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface, especially for on-premise versions
- High implementation and customization costs
- Limited mobile accessibility compared to newer cloud-native competitors
Best For
Large general contractors and subcontractors managing complex, multi-phase projects that require integrated ERP billing.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically $15,000–$50,000+ annually based on users, modules, and deployment (on-premise or cloud).
Autodesk Construction Cloud
enterpriseUnified platform for construction workflows featuring billing automation, cost management, and integration with Autodesk design tools.
Seamless BIM-to-billing integration that pulls quantities and progress directly from 3D models into payment applications
Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) is a comprehensive cloud-based platform that connects the entire construction lifecycle, from design to operations, with robust tools for project management, collaboration, and financials. For construction billing, it offers Autodesk Build's financial management features, including payment applications (AIA G702/G703 forms), schedule of values tracking, retainage management, change orders, and lien waivers. It seamlessly integrates billing data with BIM models, RFIs, submittals, and field progress for accurate, real-time invoicing and cash flow forecasting.
Pros
- Deep integration with Autodesk BIM tools for quantity-based billing accuracy
- Automated workflows for payment apps, change orders, and compliance forms
- Real-time financial dashboards linked to project progress and field data
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to the platform's broad scope
- High pricing suitable mainly for larger teams or enterprises
- Billing features require higher-tier plans, limiting accessibility for small firms
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms already using Autodesk tools that need integrated billing tied to BIM and project execution data.
Pricing
Subscription tiers start at ~$65/user/month for Core (limited financials) up to $85+/user/month for Premium with full billing; project-based or enterprise custom pricing often exceeds $1,000/month for teams.
CMiC
enterpriseFull-suite construction ERP software delivering project billing, revenue recognition, and financial forecasting for complex contracts.
End-to-end integration of billing directly with job costing, project controls, and ERP financials for real-time accuracy and audit-ready compliance
CMiC is a comprehensive ERP platform tailored for the construction industry, providing end-to-end solutions including project management, financials, HR, and field operations. Its billing module excels in handling complex construction invoicing such as AIA forms, progress billing, retainage, change orders, and WIP reporting, all integrated with real-time job costing. Designed for enterprise-scale operations, it supports cloud and on-premise deployments with robust compliance and multi-company capabilities.
Pros
- Fully integrated ERP eliminates data silos across billing, accounting, and projects
- Advanced billing tools support AIA G702/703, T&M billing, and multi-tier subcontracting
- Scalable for large enterprises with strong customization and reporting
Cons
- Steep learning curve and lengthy implementation (often 6-12 months)
- High cost unsuitable for small to mid-sized firms
- Interface feels dated compared to modern SaaS alternatives
Best For
Large construction firms and general contractors managing complex, multi-project billing with enterprise-level financial needs.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $50,000+ annually for basic modules, scaling to $200,000+ for full ERP suites depending on users and customization.
Deltek ComputerEase
enterpriseCloud construction accounting solution emphasizing job billing, overhead allocation, and customizable invoicing for mid-sized firms.
Advanced retainage billing and multi-tier subcontractor invoice approvals tailored for construction contracts
Deltek ComputerEase is a robust construction accounting software tailored for contractors, focusing on job costing, progress billing, accounts payable/receivable, and payroll management. It handles complex construction-specific billing needs like retainage, change orders, and certified payroll with detailed WIP reporting. Integrated into Deltek's ecosystem, it supports multi-company operations and customizable financial controls for small to mid-sized firms.
Pros
- Strong construction billing capabilities including progress billing and retainage management
- Integrated job costing and WIP reports for accurate project financials
- Reliable payroll processing with certified payroll compliance
Cons
- Dated on-premise interface with a steep learning curve
- Limited native mobile and cloud accessibility compared to modern competitors
- Customizations require technical expertise and additional costs
Best For
Mid-sized construction contractors needing detailed on-premise job billing and accounting control without heavy reliance on cloud features.
Pricing
Quote-based perpetual licensing with annual maintenance; base systems start around $8,000-$15,000 plus per-user fees.
eSUB
specializedCloud-based trade contractor software with tools for timecard billing, subcontract management, and mobile invoice approvals.
Mobile-first electronic billing compliant with AIA standards, enabling instant invoice submission from the job site
eSUB is a cloud-based construction management platform tailored specifically for subcontractors, offering robust billing capabilities including AIA forms, progress billing, retainage tracking, and electronic invoicing. It integrates billing seamlessly with project management, time tracking, and field operations to streamline workflows from job site to payment. The software emphasizes mobile accessibility, allowing tradespeople to submit timecards and billable work in real-time.
Pros
- Subcontractor-focused billing tools like AIA G702/703 support
- Strong mobile app for real-time time and billing entry
- Integrations with QuickBooks, Sage, and other accounting software
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for non-subcontractor users
- Pricing scales quickly for larger teams
- Reporting features lack advanced customization
Best For
Mid-sized subcontractors seeking integrated field-to-office billing and project management.
Pricing
Subscription starts at ~$49/user/month with tiered plans; custom enterprise quotes required.
Conclusion
The review of top tools highlights Procore as the clear leader, offering comprehensive construction management that integrates advanced progress billing, AIA forms, retainage, and financial reporting. Buildertrend excels in seamless client invoicing and change order tracking for project-focused workflows, while Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate stands out as a robust ERP system, tailored for industry compliance and multi-company needs. Each tool serves distinct purposes, but Procore proves the most versatile and feature-rich.
Don’t miss out on optimizing your operations—start with Procore to leverage its advanced capabilities and take your construction billing and management to the next level.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison