Freelancers, Stop Making This Costly Mistake! 💸

Imagine a client reaching out with an exciting project. You discuss the details, agree on the work, and put in hours of effort, delivering high-quality edits. Then, just when you expect to get paid…

🚨 The client’s project fails

🚨 They suddenly can’t afford to pay you

🚨 You’re left unpaid for work you already delivered

This isn’t a rare story. It’s a mistake many freelancers make—starting work without securing an advance payment.

One of our video editing coaches learned this the hard way. Since then, he follows a simple rule: 50% before, 50% after.

But how do you make sure clients actually agree to this? Let’s break it down.

Why Some Clients Refuse to Pay an Advance

If you’ve ever asked for an upfront payment and the client hesitated, you’re not alone. Here’s what might be going through their mind:

❌ “What if you take the money and disappear?”

❌ “I’m not sure I trust you yet.”

❌ “I don’t have the budget right now.”

❌ “I’ve never had to pay in advance before.”

Many clients are used to paying after delivery, especially in industries like video editing, design, and marketing. So, it’s your job to make them feel comfortable with the process.

Here’s how:

How to Ask for an Advance Payment Without Losing Clients

✅ Make it Sound Like a Standard Business Practice

The way you phrase your request matters. Instead of asking:

🔴 “Would you mind paying an advance?” (sounds unsure)

Try this:

🟢 “To secure your project slot and ensure smooth workflow, I require a 50% deposit before starting.”

This sets the expectation as something normal and professional.

✅ Break It Down into Milestones

Some clients might hesitate to pay 50% upfront. Offer an alternative:

• 🔹 30% upfront → To start work
• 🔹 40% at mid-project → To continue
• 🔹 30% on final delivery → To release final files

This makes them feel more in control while still securing payments for you.

✅ Showcase Your Credibility

If they don’t trust you yet, prove you’re reliable:

🔹 Share testimonials or case studies from past clients

🔹 Show your portfolio to highlight quality work

🔹 Offer a signed contract that protects both parties

Trust is built, not given—make them feel safe working with you.

✅ Use Payment Invoices or Contracts

Many freelancers avoid contracts, but even a simple payment invoice makes your request feel legitimate and professional.

✅ Be Ready to Walk Away

If a client refuses to pay anything upfront, ask yourself:

❓ Do I really want to risk working for free?

❓ Is this client serious about my work?

Sometimes, the best decision is to say no. A client who won’t pay now will likely be difficult later too.

What to Do If a Client Still Refuses?

Some clients will push back, no matter how professional you are. Here’s how to handle it:

🔹 Suggest a small trial task → If they’re hesitant, offer to do a paid test project first. If they’re serious, they’ll agree.

🔹 Use escrow platforms → Websites like Upwork hold payments until work is delivered. This protects both you and the client.

🔹 Offer a money-back guarantee → If you’re confident in your work, you can offer a refund policy with conditions. This reduces the client’s risk.

🔹 Identify red flags early → If a client keeps delaying payments, changes their mind too often, or disappears from messages—avoid them!

Final Thoughts: Freelancing is a Business, Treat It Like One

If you’re serious about freelancing, you have to protect your time and income.

🚀 Set clear payment terms from the beginning

🚀 Don’t be afraid to say no to unreliable clients

🚀 Build a system where **you never work for free (**except for Charity Work or for Big Clients who you want to work with in the future)

Because at the end of the day, you’re not just doing a project—you’re running a business.