A client in Austin ghosted me after I sent the final invoice, and I learned something about deposits.

I was finishing up a big website project, about $3,500 worth of work, and sent the final bill. Radio silence for two weeks. I had only asked for a 25% deposit upfront, which barely covered my initial hours. I had to chase them down through three different emails, and it was super stressful. Now I always get at least 50% before I even start, and I split the rest into milestones. Has anyone else had to change their payment terms after a bad experience?

3 comments

3 Comments

caleb_ross123mo ago

Yeah, that deposit change makes total sense. Honestly, after a few close calls, I started doing 50% to start, 25% at a big midpoint review, and the final 25% before I actually hand over the live site or source files. It locks you both in.

dylanfisher3mo ago

Remember my buddy who got stiffed for the last payment?

sarah8293mo ago

What about using escrow for the final payment?