How to Ask for a Deposit Politely (Contractor Messages You Can Copy)

Put it on the estimate

Write the deposit on the estimate itself (“Deposit to start: $500”), so the customer sees it before they say yes. A deposit that appears for the first time after approval feels like a new demand.

Explain what it is for

Customers accept a deposit when they know why: it holds their start date and pays for materials ordered for their job.

Check your state’s rules

Some states limit how much a contractor can ask up front for certain kinds of work. Check your state contractor board or ask an attorney before you set your deposit policy.

Messages you can copy

With the estimateHi Maria, here is the estimate for the bathroom. To lock in your start date and order the materials, we take a $600 deposit; the balance is due when the work is done. Any questions, just call me.

After approvalThanks for approving! Here is the deposit link so we can order your materials and put you on the schedule. Once it is in, we will confirm the start date.

A gentle reminderHi Maria, just a reminder about the deposit for the bathroom — once it is in, we will confirm your start date. Let me know if you would rather pay another way.

Make it easy to pay

Give a card option and a link. In Selk the customer can pay the deposit by card right from the estimate link, through your own Stripe account.

Questions

How much deposit should a contractor ask for?

It depends on the job, your material costs and your state’s rules. Many small contractors tie it to the cost of materials for that job. Check your state’s limits before setting a policy.

Do I need a separate deposit invoice?

It helps on bigger jobs: the customer has a clear record and the final invoice shows the deposit already paid.

Keep reading

Deposit invoice template Estimate app with card deposits How to write an estimate All guides ›

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