After getting burned twice last year, I decided to ask for 50% upfront. It’s been a game changer.
I used to chase payments for months, but now the worst clients filter themselves out before we even start. Cash flow actually feels manageable.
I just ask for half up front now too.
Deposits change everything. Clients who pay upfront take the project seriously and stop with the endless revisions and second-guessing.
I learned this the hard way after getting ghosted too many times. Here’s how I handle deposits now:
- New clients: 50% upfront
- Repeat clients I trust: Sometimes 25%
- Price hagglers: 75% or I walk
Bonus: requiring deposits forces you to write better contracts. Makes the whole thing more professional from day one.
Same here. I ask for deposits based on project size. Bigger jobs mean bigger deposits.
Clients who push back on deposits are usually trouble. It makes everything smoother when you know they are committed to paying.
Deposits aren’t just about protecting cash flow. They make clients care about the project. When they have money on the line, they show up and answer their phone. Without it, many treat you like you are giving free advice. I take 30% minimum on jobs over $500. For small jobs, I require full payment upfront.
Yeah, asking for a deposit saves a lot of hassle. It helps avoid the no-shows when payment is due.