What is the best way to track hours as a freelancer?

Log immediately after each session, not at the end of the week. Use an app with a timestamp so your records are objective and verifiable â€” essential for the self-employment deduction.

Which hours count toward the hours criterion?

All hours spent on your business: direct client work, acquisition, administration, training, and networking. Travel time for business appointments also counts. Breaks and personal trips do not.

Do I need to log breaks separately as a freelancer?

Breaks don't count toward the hours criterion. You don't need to log them separately, but make sure break time doesn't appear as working time in your records.

Time tracking as a freelancer: 5 tips for accurate invoicing

As a freelancer, accurate time tracking is the foundation of your invoicing. These five tips help you avoid mistakes and earn more.

This article will be published on 26 June 2026.

Freelancer logs hours on a smartphone immediately after a client meeting — quick time entry on the go

Tip 1: Log immediately, not retrospectively

The longer you wait to enter hours, the less accurate your records become. Use an app on your phone or laptop and log hours immediately after each session.

Tip 2: Split tasks by project

Link each time entry to a specific project and task. That way you can see exactly where your time went — useful for invoicing and your own planning.

Tip 3: Use a calendar view

A daily or weekly calendar view gives you quick insight into your work pattern. PrikKlokPlus offers a monthly calendar with direct entry per day.

Tip 4: Check before invoicing

Always review your hours before sending an invoice. Make sure all hours are entered and the project link is correct.

Tip 5: Keep your time summaries

The Dutch Tax Authority may ask for proof of your worked hours, especially if you claim the self-employment deduction. Export a monthly time summary and store it safely.

Workflow for accurate time tracking as a freelancer: log immediately, link to project, weekly check