What to Say When Asking for a Deposit (With Script Examples)
Asking for money up front feels awkward until you do it the same way every time. A deposit covers your materials, holds a spot on your schedule, and shows the customer is serious. Plenty of good contractors ask for one.
First, check your state. Some states limit how much a contractor can collect up front on certain jobs, especially home improvement work. Look up your state's rules before you pick a percentage.
Put it in the quote
The easiest deposit conversation is the one already written down. Add a line like:
"A deposit of [X]% ($[amount]) is due to schedule the job and order materials. The balance is due on completion."
Script: sending the quote
"Hi [Name], here's the quote for [job]. If it looks good, the deposit of $[amount] locks in your spot for [date] and covers materials. You can pay by [methods]. Let me know if you have any questions."
Script: they said yes but haven't paid
"Thanks again, [Name]. Just a heads-up, I can hold [date] for you once the deposit comes in. Here's the payment link: [link]."
Script: "Why do you need a deposit?"
"Totally fair question. The deposit covers the materials I buy for your job and holds the date on my schedule, so I'm not turning down other work for it. The rest isn't due until the job is done."
Script: "Other guys don't ask for one"
"I get that. I ask on every job so I can order materials ahead and show up ready on day one. If that doesn't work for you, no hard feelings."
Being willing to walk away is part of the script. A customer who won't put anything down is often the same one who's slow paying at the end.
Tips
- Make paying easy: send a link or say exactly which methods you accept
- Send a receipt as soon as the deposit lands
- Don't order special materials until it's paid
More scripts
The No Free Work Pack ($19) includes 12 deposit and payment scripts, from the first ask to a polite final reminder. Starting a new job? The free job-start checklist covers deposits too.