Myth: "Invoice after delivery so the client trusts you first."

Myth: "Invoice after delivery so the client trusts you first."

Billing entirely on the back end is how you end up chasing payment for work already shipped. Trust runs both directions, and your cash flow shouldn't depend on a stranger's goodwill.

The Split-Invoice SOP:

— 50% deposit invoice before any work starts; nothing scheduled until it clears.
— Tie the balance to a trigger: approval of the time-coded preview, not your mood.
— Master file releases only after the balance clears.
— Net-7 terms, stated late fee, automated reminders at day 3 and day 7.
— Same invoice template every time, numbered sequentially.

The deposit qualifies serious clients and protects your downside. Save this split structure. Standardize it and stop financing other people's businesses.