Hours approval is a standard process in freelancing where a client reviews and authorizes logged work hours before payment is released. It's a key step for time-based contracts.
What is Hours approval?
Hours approval is a verification step in freelance projects. After you log your worked hours, your client must review and approve them. This confirmation signals that the time spent is accepted and can be billed. It's common on platforms that use hourly contracts.
Why is this important?
This process protects both you and the client. For you, it ensures the hours you worked are validated for payment. For the client, it provides transparency and control over the project budget. Without approval, your invoice may be disputed or delayed.
How does it work?
You track your time using a tool or work diary. Typically, you submit these hours weekly or bi-weekly. Your client then receives a notification to review the log. They can approve all hours, dispute specific entries, or request modifications before finalizing.
Pros and cons
The main pros are payment security and clear communication. The cons include potential payment delays if the client is slow to review and the risk of disputes over logged time. To mitigate this, provide detailed activity notes with your submissions.
Conclusion
Hours approval is a fundamental part of the freelance workflow for hourly work. Understanding this process helps you manage client expectations and secure timely payments. Always maintain clear records and communicate proactively to streamline approvals.
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