Charges vs. Invoicing: Choosing the Right Billing Method in Docket

When managing billing in Docket, you have two main approaches:

1. Using charges that can later be combined into an invoice
2. Creating an invoice at the time of task creation

Understanding the differences will help you choose the best method for your business.

Method 1: Using Charges and Creating an Invoice Later

This method allows you to accumulate charges over time and invoice them later.

Key Points:

• Charges are billable amounts that have not yet been invoiced or paid. They are listed in the Charges tab.
• Customers do not pay charges directly—they pay invoices. Charges must be combined into an invoice before payment can be collected.

How to Combine Charges into an Invoice

1. Navigate to the Charges tab.
2. Click Actions > Create Invoice.
3. Select the checkboxes next to the charges you want to combine.
4. Click Generate Invoice.

Things to Keep in Mind

✔ Only charges from the same client and service address can be combined into one invoice.
✔ If an invoice is voided, you can return the charges to the Charges tab to use in a new invoice.
✔ Missed charges (if not added at task creation) must be manually added in the Charges tab. However, they cannot be added to an existing invoice; they will create a new invoice instead. The only workaround is to add a manual line item to the existing invoice.
✔ Works best for businesses that bill periodically (e.g., weekly or monthly) and do not require upfront payment.
✔ Ideal for commercial clients with multiple tasks per day or week who prefer a single invoice instead of separate invoices for each task.

Method 2: Invoicing at Task Creation

With this method, an invoice is automatically generated when a task is created.

Things to Keep in Mind

✔ Ensures immediate billing, reducing the risk of missed charges.
✔ Works best for businesses that prefer per-service invoicing and require upfront payment before service is performed.

Comparison: Which Method Should You Choose?

Customizing Billing Settings in Docket

Docket allows you to configure billing settings at different levels:

• Company-wide (applies to all clients)

  • Path: Account > Settings > Dumpster Management > Billing > Billing Options

• By client type (custom settings based on customer category)

  • Path: Account > Settings > Dumpster Management > Billing > Billing Options by Client Type

• By specific client (for individualized billing preferences)

  • Path: Client page > Select Client > Click Gear Tool (left of Actions) > Dumpster Management > Billing Options