Never Work Without a Contract

Many of the business questions that come up in the forum - from who owns the files to how to get paid - can be answered with "what's in the contract?" If you're in business you should be using a contract.

"The number 1 thing is to get a contract signed. Our contracts are very thorough, and include such topics such as intellectual property copyright ownership, payment process, liability for security breaches, acts of God, etc. We usually get these contracts signed upon acceptance of a proposal ."Tom Walker

While a contract helps, it can't always guarantee you'll get paid. Requiring a deposit is one way to hedge against the possibility of a client not paying what they owe.

"I have a contract and always require a 50% deposit. ...ALWAYS, I don't care if you know the person - GET 50% down ... " Arlene

While it doesn't have to be 50%, requesting a deposit is standard trade practice for designers. Unless you're happy giving away your time and expertise, do business as a business.

Never work without a contract and Get a deposit.