Use before starting any new project where you want payment upfront or a deposit to secure the work. Framed as standard practice rather than a personal demand, which makes it easier for clients to accept. Sets the right expectations before a single hour of work begins.
Subject
Deposit to confirm your project
Body
Hi [Client Name],
To lock in the project and schedule the work, I require a deposit of [amount or percentage] upfront.
Once the deposit is paid, I’ll confirm the timeline and begin work on [project].
Payment details:
If you want, I can also resend the proposal or invoice with the deposit line item included.
Best, [Your Name]
If your project involves digital deliverables, FileDue can handle the deposit and the file-locking in one flow.
Stop chasing invoices →Onboarding
Use when you are sending the contract and want to move the client toward signature quickly.
Onboarding
Use when sending a proposal and you want to frame the next step clearly.
Payment
Use when an invoice is due or only slightly overdue and you want to keep the tone warm.