50/50 milestones vs Net-30: which payment term protects you

50/50 milestones vs Net-30: which payment term protects you

Two common ways to get paid. Milestones = part now, part on delivery (often 50% upfront, 50% at the end). Net-30 = the full amount, but 30 days after you finish.

Why it matters: milestones put cash in your hand before you've done all the work, so a brand can't ghost you with nothing paid. Net-30 is normal for bigger companies, but you carry the risk while you wait.

Simple example: on a $1,000 deal, 50% milestones means $500 lands before you film. Net-30 means you film, post, then wait a month for the whole $1,000.

Your move: ask for 50% upfront with new brands. Accept Net-30 only once they've paid you on time before.