Same here. Although there is often some flexibility with smaller companies it is seen as unprofessional to ask for a deposit up front. An alternative approach i

Same here. Although there is often some flexibility with smaller companies it is seen as unprofessional to ask for a deposit up front. An alternative approach is to break the work up into smaller chunks and have the payment for those resolved before continuing. For example (as someone mentioned above) an initial assessment of the issue, or making a project plan could be one of the first steps that provide the client with something of value and at the same time show you they do pay on time. With large companies in UK unfortunately the payment terms are what they are (usually 30 days after invoicing in my case). If you don't like it, they'll find someone who does. It is up to you to decide if the higher rate they are able to pay covers the cost of the delay.