Deposit invoice template

A deposit invoice is the first thing a new client pays you and the moment the project becomes real. Here is what goes on it, how much to ask for, and how the final invoice reconciles it.

The template

Deposit invoice [number] · [date] · due on receiptBill to: [Client]
For: [50]% deposit for [project], per proposal [number] dated [date]
Deposit amount: [amount]
Project total: [amount] · Balance of [amount] due on [delivery / date]
Pay by: [bank details / pay link]
Work is scheduled to begin when this deposit is received.

Paperwork calculates the deposit and balance on the proposal and puts both on the invoices.Paperwork fills the proposal, contract, invoice, SOW, NDA and change order from one form, and your client signs from a link. $19 once. Try the free demo first.

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How much

50% is standard for projects under a few thousand dollars and for any new client. 30% is common for larger jobs or long timelines, often with a middle milestone. 100% up front is normal for small fixed items (a logo, a one-day shoot) and for anyone who has paid late before.

The one sentence that matters

"Work is scheduled to begin when this deposit is received." It turns the deposit from a formality into the start button, and it removes any question about why the project hasn't started.

The final invoice

Show the full project total, then a line "Less deposit paid [date]: −[amount]", then the balance due. Clients and their accountants want to see the whole story on one page.

Deposits and refunds

Say in the contract whether the deposit is refundable and when. Most freelancers make it non-refundable once work has started; before that, refund it and move on.