A deposit is not a sign of distrust. It is a sign that both of you are committed, and it pays for the time you block out on your calendar before a single file changes hands.
Why it helps your client too
A deposit gives the project a real start date. It moves you from "maybe" to "booked", and good clients like knowing they have your attention reserved.
How much to ask for
- Short projects (under a month): 50% upfront, 50% on delivery.
- Longer projects: 30–40% upfront, then milestones you can name, then the balance.
- Ongoing work: bill at the start of each month, not the end.
Wording that works
“To lock in the dates, I take 50% upfront and the rest on delivery. I’ll send the first invoice today, and we start as soon as it’s settled.”
Say it plainly, say it early (in the proposal, not after the kickoff call), and send the invoice the same day. Momentum is on your side while everyone is still excited.
Making it easy to pay
Put your payment details on the invoice itself, not in a separate email. Every extra step between "yes" and "paid" is a place where a payment can stall for a week.
