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Not every customer should start with full credit.
One of the simplest ways to protect cash flow is requiring a deposit or partial payment before work begins. This isn’t about mistrust. It’s about managing risk and setting clear expectations.
Some projects naturally carry higher exposure. When that happens, deposits create balance between opportunity and protection.
Situations where deposits make sense
New customers without payment history
Large or custom projects with high upfront costs
Clients requesting extended payment terms
Customers who have paid late in the past
Why deposits help your business
Reduce working capital strain
Show customer commitment to the project
Improve cash predictability
Lower the risk of large unpaid balances
How strong businesses structure deposits
25–50% upfront for large or custom work
Milestone billing tied to project progress
Final payment due before delivery or completion
Most professional customers understand deposits. In fact, clear expectations often strengthen the relationship. March is about credit discipline. Sometimes the smartest credit decision is limiting how much credit you extend.
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