How large is a typical deposit?
There's no fixed rule – both sides agree the amount freely. In practice, values between a quarter and half of the project volume are common. The more upfront effort before the first visible delivery, the more a higher deposit makes sense.
Example: for a €6,000 project, a 30% deposit comes to exactly €1,800. The rest becomes due on completion or in further stages.
How to word the deposit in your quote
"A deposit of 30% (€1,800) is due upon awarding the contract. Work begins once the deposit is received. The remaining €4,200 is due after acceptance."
What belongs on a deposit invoice?
- labeled as a "deposit invoice" and referencing the quote or order
- the usual mandatory invoice details (number, date, addresses, tax number or VAT ID)
- the deposit amount and VAT, where applicable
- a note that the deposit will be credited against the final invoice
Deposit, progress payment, payment in advance: the difference
- Deposit: an amount paid before the project starts, usually a percentage
- Progress payment: payment for a project stage already delivered
- Payment in advance: the full amount paid before the work is done
Fairer for both: securing the budget instead of a deposit
Many clients hesitate over a deposit because the money goes straight to the service provider. With a stip, the client secures the budget with the payment partner Stripe before the project starts. You can see the money is there, and you receive it after each milestone is approved. The client only pays for what they've accepted.