Landed a massive project that’ll take months. Pondering how to structure payment milestones. Torn between asking for a big upfront deposit or smaller, frequent payments.
Not sure what’s fair for both me and the client. Anyone tackled this before?
I’ve done a few big projects and here’s what worked for me:
- 30% deposit upfront
- Split the rest into 3-4 chunks
- Tie payments to clear milestones
The upfront cash helps cover initial costs. Splitting the rest keeps money coming in steadily.
I make sure each milestone is something the client can easily check off. Like:
- Wireframes approved
- First set of features live
- Final version ready for testing
This setup keeps both sides motivated. The client sees progress, and I don’t stress about getting paid.
Just be super clear about everything in your contract. Saves headaches later.
Been doing this for years. Here’s what works:
30% upfront. Covers your initial costs and shows the client’s serious.
Split the rest into 3-4 payments. Tie each to a clear milestone the client can verify. Like when designs are approved or a major feature’s done.
Keep it simple. Don’t overcomplicate with too many small payments. That’s just more admin work for you.
Put it all in the contract. Spell out exactly what needs to happen for each payment. Saves arguments later.
This way, you get steady cash flow, the client sees progress, and everyone’s motivated to keep things moving. Win-win.
I usually just ask for a chunk up front. Maybe 30% or so. Then split the rest into a couple payments. Keep it simple. Less hassle that way.
I’d go for a mix. Get a decent upfront deposit, like 25-30%. Then split the rest into monthly payments.
This way, you’ve got some cash to start with, and a steady income as you work. Keeps things simple and you’re not chasing payments all the time.
Just make sure to set clear expectations in your contract about when payments are due.
I’ve dealt with this a bunch. For big projects, I usually go with smaller, frequent payments tied to specific milestones.
It’s worked well for me because it keeps cash flowing and motivates both sides to stay on track. I typically ask for a 20-25% deposit upfront to cover initial costs and show the client’s serious.
Then I break the rest into 3-4 payments based on clear project stages. Like 25% when designs are approved, 25% when the first major feature is done, and so on.
I always spell out these milestones clearly in the contract. It gives the client a sense of progress and me some security. Plus, if things go sideways, neither of us is out a huge chunk of change.
Just make sure your milestones are things the client can easily verify. Keeps everything smooth and avoids misunderstandings.
I just charge half up front and half when I’m done.
Not much paperwork and keeps things easy for everyone.