Why I Ask for an Upfront Payment, And Why It’s in Your Best Interest

May 7, 2025 / 2 min read

Handshake between client and professional, symbolizing agreement and mutual trust in a business deal

Photo by Thirdman

Requesting an upfront payment isn’t about mistrust. It’s about clarity, commitment, and mutual respect.

Deposits set the tone

A website project isn’t a quick fix – it’s a structured process. There’s planning, design, development, communication, and a lot of hours that go in before anything is ever “launched.”

That’s why I use a phased payment model.
It keeps things fair, flexible and focused, based on the size and scope of your project.

Smaller projects
(Up to 3,000 € or under 6 weeks)

  • 40% after accepting the proposal
    This confirms the project and covers planning and initial development.
  • 60% before launch
    Once everything is ready to go live, the final payment ensures full completion and delivery.

Larger projects
(Over 3,000 € or more than 6 weeks)

  • 30% after accepting the proposal
    Covers project planning and early design
  • 30% after design approval and start of development
    Keeps momentum going into the dev phase
  • 40% before launch
    Ensures delivery and launch without delays

Why this helps both of us

For you as a client, this structure means:

  • You always know what to expect and when
  • There are no surprise invoices
  • Each phase is clear and aligned with real project milestones
  • I can stay fully focused on your project – without chasing admin or juggling unclear commitments

For me, it means I can:

  • Plan my schedule properly
  • Deliver high-quality work without cutting corners
  • Protect the time and energy I dedicate to each client

What it’s really about

Upfront payments aren’t about risk.
They’re about respect – for time, process and professional work.

They show we’re both serious.
And they allow me to give you my best.

Want a structured, transparent project from day one?

I treat your project seriously from the very beginning – and the payment structure reflects that.

Let’s build with trust, clarity and commitment.