Estimates

How do I politely ask for a deposit? Frame the deposit as standard practice that secures their start date, then build it right into the estimate so your client just approves and pays in one tap. Client Communication Deposits Estimates How do I raise my rates with existing clients? Give notice, explain briefly, and apply the new rate to the next engagement or renewal. A respectful script for raising prices, then the steps to update your hourly rate and reflect it on the next estimate or recurring invoice. Estimates Pricing Rates How do I handle scope creep? Name the extra work, get agreement in writing, and bill it as a change rather than absorbing it. A calm process that protects the relationship. Client Approval Estimates Scope Management Hourly or Fixed Price — Which Should I Quote? Quote hourly when scope is uncertain, fixed when it's well defined. Here are the tradeoffs and how to pick for each job. Estimates Pricing Time Tracking How much should a freelancer charge? Base your rate on your costs, target income, and market rates, then choose hourly or fixed. A framework for setting prices you can defend. Estimates Pricing Rates Should I charge a deposit? For most freelance projects, yes — a deposit lowers your risk and signals the client is committed. Here's when deposits make sense, typical ranges, and how to collect one in Fee-Lion. Deposits Estimates Getting Paid What is a proforma invoice? A proforma invoice is a preliminary bill sent before work or delivery, showing expected charges. It isn't a demand for payment yet — and in Fee-Lion, your estimate plays exactly that role. Billing Basics Estimates Invoices What is a day rate vs a project rate? A day rate charges per day worked; a project rate is one fixed price for the whole job. Which to use when, and how to set each. Day Rate Estimates Pricing What is a kill fee? A kill fee is a partial charge a client pays if they cancel a project after you've started but before completion. Here's how freelancers structure one and bill it in Fee-Lion. Cancellation Deposits Estimates What Is Scope Creep? Scope creep is when a project's work expands beyond what was agreed without a matching change to price or timeline. How to spot it and price the extra work. Estimates Pricing Scope Creep