Recently started taking deposits for larger projects. Trying to figure out the best way to keep tabs on what’s been paid and what’s still owed. My current spreadsheet system feels clunky.
Anyone else struggle with this? Curious how others manage partial payments and balance tracking efficiently.
I just jot it down on paper. Deposit paid. Balance owed. Keeps it simple for me.
I use a simple notes app on my phone. Each client gets a note with project details, deposit amount, and balance due.
When payments come in, I update the note. Quick and easy to check anytime.
For invoicing, I use a basic template and just fill in the details. Keeps everything straightforward without fancy systems.
I just use a notebook. Write down the job, what they paid, what’s left. Cross it off when it’s done. Simple and works for me. Don’t need fancy stuff for a few jobs a month.
Been there, done that. Tracking deposits can be a real headache.
Here’s what I’ve found works:
I just drag and drop as payments come in. It’s visual and keeps everything in one place.
For invoicing, I use Wave. It’s free and lets me see what’s paid and what’s outstanding at a glance.
This combo has saved me hours of headaches. Plus, it’s way easier to check on my phone when I’m out and about.
I’ve been there. Used to have a mess of spreadsheets too.
What worked for me was setting up a simple Google Sheet. I made columns for client name, project, total amount, deposit paid, and balance due. Then I added a column for payment dates.
I color-code rows based on status - green for fully paid, yellow for deposit received, red for overdue. It’s basic but does the job.
For bigger projects, I have a separate tab in the same sheet. I list out all the payment milestones and dates. Helps me stay on top of when to send invoices.
Not perfect, but it’s free and easy to access from anywhere. Beats my old system of scribbled notes and trying to remember who paid what.
Ditch the spreadsheets. They’re a hassle and easy to mess up. Get yourself some basic accounting software. QuickBooks or FreshBooks work fine for most contractors. They’ll track deposits, balances, and send invoices automatically.
Set it up once and it’s just data entry. You’ll see what’s paid, what’s due, and when at a glance. No more juggling multiple sheets or doing mental math. If you’re dead set on DIY, use a proper database like Airtable. It’ll handle the relationships between jobs, clients, and payments better than Excel ever will. Your future self will thank you for setting up a real system now.