If there is one golden rule in freelancing, it is this: Never start a significant project without a deposit.
Deposits protect you from ghosting clients, ensure the client has skin in the game, and provide the cash flow you need to operate while doing the work.
How Much Should You Ask For?
- Projects under $5,000: 50% upfront, 50% upon final delivery.
- Projects $5,000 to $15,000: 30% upfront, 40% at a specific mid-point milestone, 30% upon final delivery.
- Monthly Retainers: 100% upfront for the month (paid on the 1st).
How to Explain Deposits to Clients
Sometimes new clients will push back: "We usually pay Net 30 after the project is done."
Stand your ground. You can politely explain: "As an independent studio, my policy requires a deposit to secure your slot in my production schedule and cover initial asset costs. Work begins as soon as the deposit clears."
How to Format a Deposit Invoice
Don't just send an invoice for the full amount and say "pay half." Send a specific invoice for the deposit.
Option 1: The Standalone Deposit Invoice
Create an invoice where the line item is explicitly: "Initial Deposit (50%) for Website Redesign Project." When the project is done, send a second invoice for the remaining 50%.
Option 2: The Full Invoice with Partial Payment (Better)
Show the full scope of work, but clearly mark the required payment amount. E.g., Total Project: $10,000. Amount Due Now: $5,000.
Don't Start Work Early
The most important part of a deposit is discipline. Do not open Figma, do not start writing code, do not write a strategy brief until that deposit hits your bank account. If you start early, the deposit loses its power as a commitment mechanism.
With Invoicease, creating and sending deposit invoices takes seconds, allowing you to secure the project and get to work faster.