Define what the deposit covers
State whether the payment is a project deposit, retainer, materials hold, or booking fee so the client knows what starts after payment.
Deposit payment request
Collect deposits and retainers before work starts.
A deposit payment request should explain what the payment covers, when it is due, and how to pay. Pair the invoice PDF with a pay-now link so kickoff does not wait on another email thread.
A simple deposit request workflow
Put the deposit on an invoice
Include amount, due date, terms, and any remaining balance notes. A deposit request is clearer when it looks like a real invoice, not a vague ask.
Send the pay-now path with the PDF
Email the invoice and a Stripe Checkout link together so the client can review and pay without another back-and-forth.
Track the remaining balance later
After the deposit clears, keep the final balance on a separate invoice or milestone request tied to the same client record.
Built for deposits that need context
- Creative freelancers booking project kickoffs
- Consultants collecting retainers before discovery work
- Contractors securing materials or schedule holds
- Service businesses requiring a deposit before on-site visits
Related resources
Retainer invoice template
Structure recurring retainer invoices with clear scope and pay-now links.
Open resourceMilestone payment request
Bill project phases with invoice context attached to each milestone.
Open resourceDeposit email templates
Copy retainer and deposit request wording with clear subject lines.
Open resourcePayment request vs invoice
Decide when a deposit ask should be invoice-backed instead of a bare link.
Open resourceDeposit payment request FAQ
What is a deposit payment request?
It is a request for partial payment before work starts, usually framed as a deposit, retainer, or booking fee with clear invoice details.
Should a deposit request include an invoice?
Yes in most cases. An invoice gives the client a record of the amount, due date, and what the deposit covers before they pay online.
Can the remaining balance be billed later?
Yes. Many freelancers send a deposit invoice first, then a final balance invoice after delivery. EasyPayRequest keeps both requests tied to the same client.
Do clients need a separate payment portal login?
No. The usual flow is an emailed invoice PDF plus a Stripe Checkout pay-now link the client can open directly.
Start work after the deposit clears
Create a free account, send a deposit invoice with a pay-now link, and keep the remaining balance ready for the next request.
Start for free