Lago
Open source usage-based billing and monetization infrastructure.
GitHub stars
10,686
Repo updated
Oct 2026
License
AGPL-3.0
Technology
Ruby/Go, PostgreSQL
What is Lago?
Lago meters usage and turns it into pricing, credits, entitlements, invoices, payments and revenue data. It supports usage such as API calls, tokens, compute and seats, and handles subscriptions with allowances, minimum commitments and overages. Events are idempotent and processed asynchronously. A hosted Lago Cloud is available.
Best for Software and API businesses that charge by usage or seat and have developers to integrate billing.
In depth
Lago features
Strengths
- Built specifically for usage-based pricing.
- Robust event handling.
- Self-hosted or Lago Cloud.
Limitations
- Requires developer integration, so it is not a point-and-click invoicing app.
- Heavier to host than a PHP invoicing tool.
- A billing engine still needs a payment processor.
Where Lago fits in your business
We compare Lago with similar tools in these small business buying guides:
- Billing guide
- Revenue recognition guide
Installing and hosting Lago
Follow the project's own installation guide for exact, current steps. See the official documentation.
Information checked 16 October 2026 from the project's documentation. Versions change, so confirm before running commands on a production server.
Need a server to host it?
Docker, Node, Python, Java and similar stacks usually need a VPS where you can install your own software. A small VPS is enough to start, and you can upgrade later. Hostinger offers both shared web hosting and VPS plans.
Affiliate disclosure: this is an affiliate link. If you buy through it we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. CRMs and software are listed independently of any hosting partner. Learn more.
Similar software
InvoicePlane
Self-hosted web application to manage invoices, quotes, clients and payments.
3,208 • MIT
InvoiceShelf
Open source invoicing for people who want to own their business data.
1,857 • AGPL-3.0
Invio
Self-hosted invoicing without the bloat: create an invoice, share a link, get paid.
1,193 • Unlicense
Official links for Lago
Always download from the official sources to get the latest and safest version.
Frequently asked questions about Lago
What is Lago?
An open source billing engine that meters usage and turns it into plans, invoices and payments.
Does Lago need a developer?
Yes. You send usage events from your product through its API.
Is Lago good for a small shop that sends a few invoices?
No. A simple invoicing app or an ERP is a better fit.
Data verified 16 October 2026 from the project's public repository, LICENSE file and documentation. Details change, so check the official sources. See our disclaimer. Found a mistake? Tell us.