Payment Guide
How to Request a Deposit Professionally (UK Templates & Guide)
Learn how to ask clients for a deposit professionally. Includes message templates, when to request a deposit, how much to charge, and the easiest way to collect deposits using payment links.
Asking for a deposit can feel awkward — but in the UK, it's now standard practice for freelancers, tradespeople, beauty professionals, tattoo artists, photographers, dog boarders, and many other service businesses.
A deposit protects your time, reduces cancellations, covers upfront costs and ensures clients are committed. The key is knowing how to request a deposit professionally , without sounding unsure or aggressive.
In this guide, you'll learn:
- Exactly how to word a deposit request
- Message templates for WhatsApp, text and email
- How much deposit to request (UK norms)
- How to send a secure deposit payment link
- How to send balance payments later
Why You Should Ask for a Deposit
Deposits are standard for UK service businesses because they:
- Secure commitment from clients
- Reduce no-shows and cancellations
- Cover materials, travel and booking time
- Protect your schedule from last-minute dropouts
If your time is valuable, a deposit should be part of your process.
How Much Deposit Should You Request?
UK businesses typically charge between 10% and 50% depending on:
- Industry norms (e.g., tattoos = higher deposits)
- Materials required upfront
- Booking duration and preparation time
- How likely cancellations are
Most UK freelancers charge between £10–£50 for small jobs and 20–30% for larger bookings.
Want to learn how to collect deposits + balance payments easily? Read the deposit & balance payments guide.
How to Request a Deposit Professionally (Message Templates)
Here are ready-to-use templates you can send via WhatsApp, text or email.
Friendly/Professional
Hi! To secure your booking for [service] on [date] , I take a [£ amount] deposit. Here's your payment link: [insert Simply Link] Once the deposit is paid, your appointment is fully confirmed.
Direct & Clear
To confirm your booking, a [£ amount] deposit is required. Please use the link below to make payment: [insert Simply Link] This secures your appointment and covers my preparation time.
For Trades & Services
Before I book you in, I take a [£ amount] deposit. This prevents cancellations and covers materials. Here's your secure payment link: [insert Simply Link]
For Beauty, Hair, Tattoo
To secure your appointment, I require a [£ amount] deposit. It only takes a moment using the link below: [insert Simply Link] Once paid, I'll get you fully booked in.
The Fastest Way to Collect a Deposit: Send a Payment Link
The easiest, most professional way to collect a deposit is with a payment link. Simply Link lets you create one in seconds:
- Create a deposit link instantly (e.g., £20 deposit)
- Send it by WhatsApp, text or Instagram DM
- Automatic reminders if the client forgets to pay
- Full payment tracking for both deposit and balance
Want to learn how to create your first link? See the payment link guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I charge for a deposit?
Most UK businesses charge between 10% and 50%, depending on costs and cancellation risks.
When should I request a deposit?
Always request a deposit before confirming the booking.
How do I word a deposit request professionally?
Use clear, confident wording and provide a secure payment link.
Should clients pay a deposit before or after booking?
Before. This prevents no-shows and secures your time.
Can I send deposit links via WhatsApp or text?
Yes — payment links are perfect for messaging apps.
Related Guides
Continue learning with these related guides:
How to Send Deposit & Balance Payment Links
Learn how to take deposits upfront and collect balance payments later.
Read guideCreate a Payment Link in Seconds
Learn how to create payment links manually and with Simply Link.
Read guideHow to Send a Payment Link on WhatsApp, Text & Instagram
Step-by-step instructions for sending payment links via messaging apps.
Read guidePayment Reminder Message Templates (UK)
Professional message templates for reminding clients to pay.
Read guideStart Sending Deposit Request Links Professionally
Create your first deposit link in seconds — with automatic reminders for clients.
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