Understanding Non-Billable Percentage
How we calculate. Non-billable % = 100 − utilization %, when definitions match. The form uses the same arithmetic as the worked examples on this page. See our methodology and accuracy policy.
Real-world scenario: A typical Non-Billable Percentage case uses billable hours 1560 and available hours 2000. Enter the same figures below to reproduce the worked path.
What is Non-Billable Percentage?
The complement of utilization. Useful for BD, training, admin, and capacity conversations.
- Available hours per firm policy
- Billable ≤ available typically
- Pairs with utilization
The Formula
Worked Example
Common Use Cases
- Capacity planning: admin load
- BD time: investment share
- Training budgets: non-billable hours
Pro Tips
- Code non-billable categories
- Don’t hide write-offs here
- Compare to utilization targets
Limitations: Non-Billable Percentage results are educational practice-management aids only—not legal advice, fee advice, or a substitute for counsel, ethics rules, or engagement letters. Confirm definitions with your firm policies and applicable professional rules.
FAQ
Should it equal 100 − utilization?
Yes when both use the same available and billable inputs.
What if available is 0?
Non-billable % is undefined—enter positive available hours.
Authoritative References
For practice-management concepts and professional rules, consult:
- American Bar Association — ethics and practice resources
- Law Practice Today — practice management articles
- NABE — legal administrators community