Got a new client who wants a down payment before I start the project. Never done this before. Unsure how to structure the invoice - should I list it as a separate item or include it in the total? Also wondering if I need to mention anything specific about it being a down payment.
Just list it as ‘Down Payment’ on the invoice. Add it to the total. Simple.
No need to overcomplicate things. As long as you and the client know what’s what, you’re good.
I’ve been doing down payments for a while now. Here’s my approach:
List it as its own item on the invoice. I call it something like ‘50% Project Deposit’ or whatever percentage it is.
Include it in the total, but also show the remaining balance.
My invoices look something like this:
Project XYZ Total: $1000
50% Deposit: $500
Remaining Balance: $500
I also add a note saying the deposit’s non-refundable and will be deducted from the final invoice.
This setup’s worked well for me. Clients know exactly what they’re paying and what’s left. Just remember to track it so you don’t overcharge later.
Oh, and always get the down payment before starting work. Learned that one the hard way.
Here’s what I do for down payments:
List it as a separate item on the invoice. Call it ‘Project Deposit’ and include the percentage.
Add it to the total, but show the remaining balance too.
Put a note that it’s non-refundable and will be subtracted from the final bill.
Keep it simple and clear. Clients like knowing exactly what they’re paying for.
I just write it down and add it up. Never had problems.
Here’s how I handle it:
List the down payment as a separate line item. Call it ‘Project Deposit’ or ‘Initial Payment’.
Include it in the total, but show the remaining balance too.
My invoices look like this:
Total Project Cost: $2000
Initial Payment (50%): $1000
Balance Due: $1000
Add a note that it’s non-refundable and comes off the final bill.
Keep your paperwork simple. Clients just want to know what they’re paying and why.
Always get the money before you start work. No exceptions. You’ll thank me later.
Been there, done that. Here’s how I handle down payments:
- List it as a separate line item
- Label it clearly as “Down Payment” or “Initial Deposit”
- Include it in the total
I also add a note at the bottom saying something like:
“Down payment will be applied to final invoice.”
Keeps everything clear and upfront. Clients appreciate that.
As for mentioning it’s a down payment - yeah, definitely do that. Helps avoid confusion later.
Remember to adjust your next invoice to account for this payment. Don’t want to accidentally double-charge the client.