How Can Contractors Improve AIA Billing?

AIA billing is the standard progress billing method on many commercial projects. Done well, it accelerates cash; done poorly, it delays payment and invites disputes.

Keys to Better AIA Billing

• Build a clear schedule of values aligned to the work, not arbitrary line items
• Bill in the period work is completed — avoid front-loading
• Apply retainage correctly and consistently
• Attach required documentation — lien waivers, stored materials, schedules
• Review before submission to catch errors that cause rejection

Common Mistakes

Math errors, unsupported stored-material amounts, missing signatures, and billing out of sequence with the schedule of values all cause rejections and delay cash.

The Result

A clean, accurate AIA billing process reduces review time for the owner or GC, fewer rejections, and faster collection. It also produces better records for your surety and lender.