{
  "id": 12801869,
  "title": "How to Ask for a Deposit Before You Start the Work",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/08/how-to-ask-for-a-deposit-before-you-start-the-work",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-10-08T06:09:27.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Dev.to",
    "slug": "dev-to",
    "url": "https://dev.to/d3bd863b497b/how-to-ask-for-a-deposit-before-you-start-the-work-5gh5"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "When starting a new project, it's wise to request a deposit before diving into the work. This simple technique helps ensure you won't lose money if the client decides to walk away partway through. To do this effectively, follow these guidelines.\n\nFirst, ask for the deposit in the same message where you confirm the project scope. Include the total price, the deposit amount, what the deposit covers, when the work starts, and how to pay. Write this all in one short paragraph and send it immediately after they agree. The deposit request itself is the key action.\n\nNext, consider when to ask for a deposit. Do so whenever you stand to lose real money if the client disappears mid-project. This usually applies to custom work that can't be sold again, bespoke creations, or any project involving physical goods or subcontractors. Projects that last for a few days of your time or more also warrant a deposit.\n\nBe clear about whether the deposit is refundable or non-refundable. Treat it as an advance that gets deducted from the final invoice, not an extra fee. Make sure the refundability rule is explicit and check local consumer protection laws if the amount is significant. Avoid using terms like \"guaranteed\" or \"legally binding\" in your communication.\n\nThe wording that gets a positive response is straightforward. Present the deposit request as the start button of the project. Explain what the money buys and offer multiple payment options. Ask the client what would make this arrangement work better for them, such as a smaller deposit or multiple payment milestones.\n\nWhen creating the deposit invoice, use the same format as any regular invoice. Include your business details, the client's name and address, invoice number and date, and a detailed description of what the deposit covers. List the amount, currency, and payment terms, and reference any prior agreement or quote number. State how to pay, whether via bank details or a payment link, and whether any tax applies to the deposit.\n\nEnsure the deposit is clearly visible on the final invoice, as a separate line showing the deposit amount deducted from the total. This prevents accusations of double billing. For example, if the total project cost is $2,400 with an 8% tax rate and a 50% deposit, the deposit invoice would show a $1,200 deposit with a tax of $96, totaling $1,296. The final invoice would then deduct this amount, showing the net amount before tax.\n\nUsing a tool like Invoala can simplify the process. Their free invoice generator allows you to enter all the necessary details quickly and efficiently. Fill in your and the client's information, add the deposit line as the first item, and specify what it covers.",
  "summary": "This article first appeared on Invoala . Ask for the deposit in the same message where you confirm the scope, not in a separate email later. Write one short paragraph — scope, total price, deposit amount, what the deposit covers, when the work starts, and how to pay — then send a deposit invoice the moment they agree. That single, plain request is the whole technique. Most hesitation from clients…",
  "key_points": [
    "Request deposit in project confirmation message",
    "Specify deposit amount, coverage, start date, payment method",
    "Clarify refundability, follow local consumer protection laws"
  ],
  "editors_take": "Requesting a deposit upfront changes the dynamics of a project by securing payment for work already done and shielding against potential losses if a client abandons the project midway.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}