Ask Is it appropriate to ask for a percentage of project payment before starting any freelance work?

[Edward22]

Securing payment is a major concern when working independently, especially when dealing with individuals you have never met. An upfront deposit is a sum of money a client pays before any actual labor begins on a project. This practice protects your time and ensures the client is serious about moving forward with the contract. However, some clients hesitate to pay for work they have not seen yet, which can stall the process. Do you require a deposit before starting a project, or do you wait until the work is complete?