Working as a freelancer can give you the ability to be your own boss and manage your own workload, but it also means you’re responsible for running your own business. With this in mind, it’s vital that you have the tools you need to keep on top of everything, from your invoices to your own timekeeping.

When it comes to staying organised, you might find that your iPhone becomes your best friend as you can use all kinds of apps to keep everything in its place.

The following apps could be ideal for your freelancing business:

1) Invoice2Go

If you find it difficult to keep track of which clients you need to send invoices to, or if you can’t be bothered to write up a new invoice with every client, Invoice2Go could be the app for you. It includes all of the bells and whistles found in the desktop version of this programme, and it allows you to invoice clients and set up a filing system with your iPhone.

2) Focus Time

This excellent app is the lifesaver for those that find it hard to keep track of their time. It uses the Pomodoro Technique, which is an effective working method that can help you to get more out of your day. You split your day into pomodoros, which are 25 minutes of work. After each pomodoro you take a five minute break, and after four pomodoros you take a 15 minute break. Focus Time can show you exactly how much time you have left before you can enjoy a break and it can also make sure you get back to work!

3) PayPal

This app is likely to be one that most people recognise, as it’s one of the most popular money transfer programmes out there. However, it can be especially useful for freelancers as they can ask clients to quickly pay them via PayPal. Paying by cheque and bank transfer can sometimes be confusing and can take too long, whereas with PayPal you can pool your money and then easily transfer it to your bank account whenever you like. It also keeps a record of your payments and is completely secure, which could prove to be very useful if you run into any issues.

4) Evernote

Evernote is a clever little app that’s perfect for freelancers that are constantly jotting down notes and thoughts on scraps of paper. With this app you can keep all of your important notes in one place and can look back over them at a time to suit you – you never know, you might be able to create some incredible projects from just one tiny note!

5) CalenGoo

This strangely-named app allows you to synch your Google calendar with your iPhone, ensuring you have constant access to your schedule. CalenGoo is quite a powerful app and is ideal if you don’t like Apple’s calendar. You can view and edit your calendar through the app, and all changes will instantly appear on the desktop or tablet version of your calendar as well.

Using the right apps for your freelancing business can help you to get as much work done as possible, while also staying on top of invoicing and other essential aspects of your business.

This article was provided by Aurora Johnson on behalf of Nixon Williams, a contractor accountants