time tracking software - Virtual Assistant Forums

#1 (**permalink**) 10-23-2007

I use myhours.com for time tracking. But, it has its limitations. I am looking for something that will allow me to input the number of hours my client has retained this month and then deduct the time used so that I know how many hours my client has remaining. For instance, lets say he has booked 20 hours this month. I want to start with 20 hours "banked" and then deduct the time as I go along so that I always have an accurate account of the time he has left. Does this make sense to you all? Do you know of any software that offers this feature?

#2 (**permalink**) 10-23-2007

Good question, although I do not have an answer, I would love that feature too. Right now I use Excel. I hate having to jump from here to there when billing!

#3 (**permalink**) 10-23-2007

Check the directory listings (http://www.virtualassistantforums.co...ces/Invoicing/) for multiple solutions

#4 (**permalink**) 10-23-2007

Thanks Lily. But not one of these have (has?) what I am looking for

I am beginning to think it doesn't exist.

#5 (**permalink**) 10-23-2007

I use MyHours too and I combine that with Excel for a complete solution. It isn't the most ideal but it works well for my purposes

#6 (**permalink**) 10-23-2007

Originally Posted by bsetc

I use MyHours too and I combine that with Excel for a complete solution. It isn't the most ideal but it works well for my purposes

I'm afraid I don't know how to set that up. Is it too complicated to explain? I am familiar with Excel but only the basics. I have only set up simple spreadsheets.

#7 (**permalink**) 10-23-2007

Originally Posted by shari VA

I'm afraid I don't know how to set that up. Is it too complicated to explain? I am familiar with Excel but only the basics. I have only set up simple spreadsheets.

I did it! It wasn't that hard. Thanks for the idea Doreen and Erin. This will work great.

#8 (**permalink**) 11-08-2007

Ditto on myHours. The spreadsheet export is fantastic and details everything very well. I include it with my final invoice and make adjust any changes (such as first time discounts) as needed.

#9 (**permalink**) 11-24-2007

I just signed up for a myhours account. I can't wait to look around on it. I have never had to document my hours for my other 2 clients before but I think I need to get ahead of things now.

#10 (**permalink**) 11-25-2007

I think it's a good idea to track your time even if you don't have to submit it to your client or you charge a flat rate, because at the end of the month (or whatever interval you want) you can go back and compare your hours to your income and make sure you are charging the correct amount. You may think you are making $X per hour but at the end of the month when you go back and compare the hours actually spent vs. the rates charged you might find out it is more or less than you expected.

When I invoice in QuickBooks I have my retainer and per project fees categorized separate from my hourly income so I can easily compare it against my time spent and see if I am over/under charging.