UK Timesheet Generator Guide 2026
Free timesheet generator for UK contractors, freelancers and employees · Last updated June 2026 · Not a payroll document
GetTimesheet is a free, browser-based timesheet generator for UK contractors, freelancers and employees. Enter your daily hours, hourly rate and client details to generate a professional timesheet downloadable as a PDF.
All data stays entirely in your browser. Nothing you enter is ever sent to or stored on our servers. No account or sign-up required.
What is a timesheet?
A timesheet records hours worked over a set period. Contractors and freelancers use timesheets to evidence hours worked so clients can approve and process payment. The timesheet acts as a record that work was performed and is often countersigned by the client before the contractor raises an invoice.
How to fill in a timesheet
Enter the period start date and GetTimesheet will populate the daily rows automatically. For each working day, enter the hours worked — the tool handles regular hours and overtime separately based on your standard working day setting. Once all hours are entered, click Download PDF to generate a ready-to-submit timesheet with your name, client name, period, rate and totals all pre-filled.
Most UK contractor timesheets follow a weekly or monthly cycle. Set the period type to match your contract — weekly (5 days), fortnightly (10 days), monthly (a custom number of days), or any other period up to 31 days.
Do UK contractors need timesheets?
This depends on the contract. Most contractors working through an agency are required to submit weekly or monthly timesheets as a condition of payment. The timesheet is countersigned by the client to confirm hours, then used as the basis for the contractor's invoice to the agency or end client.
Contractors working through their own limited company and invoicing directly typically combine timesheet submission with invoicing — the timesheet confirms hours, the invoice requests payment. Once your timesheet is approved, use GetInvoice to generate a matching HMRC-compliant PDF invoice.
How is overtime calculated in the UK?
There is no statutory right to overtime pay beyond the National Minimum Wage. Overtime rates are set by individual contracts and typically fall into one of three categories:
- Time and a half (1.5×) — the most common UK overtime rate
- Double time (2×) — often applied on bank holidays or Sundays
- Flat rate — some contracts pay the same rate for all hours
GetTimesheet supports all three options plus a custom multiplier. Set your standard working day length (default 8 hours) and any hours above that threshold are automatically calculated at your chosen overtime rate.
IR35 and timesheets
If you operate inside IR35, your engager may require additional record-keeping. Timesheets can support evidence of actual hours worked, which may be relevant in the event of an HMRC enquiry. Consult a qualified accountant or IR35 specialist if you are unsure about your status — this tool does not constitute tax or legal advice.
Important disclaimer
GetTimesheet is for reference only and does not constitute a certified payroll document. Always verify earnings with your client, employer or accountant before invoicing. For official guidance visit
GOV.UK — Employment contracts.
Also from the Get Suite
GetTimesheet is part of a suite of free UK business tools. Once your timesheet is approved, use GetInvoice to raise a matching HMRC-compliant PDF invoice. Also try GetVAT for VAT calculations, GetPayslip for payslip estimates, GetMileage for HMRC mileage allowance, and GetStudentLoan for student loan repayment projections.