Ask for money down before the work starts. A deposit is set on the estimate, so the client sees it when they approve the quote.
Add a deposit
Open the estimate and click Add Deposit in the totals section. Choose how to calculate it:
Fixed Amount — a set dollar figure (for example, $500 down).
Percentage — a share of the total (for example, 40% of the estimate).
Enter the value and click Add Deposit. It shows on the estimate under the total, so the amount due up front is clear before the client agrees.
Tip: A deposit protects you on materials-heavy jobs — set it before you send the estimate so it's part of the deal from the start.
Related: Send an estimate.