How to structure safe deposits and staged payments
Splitting a big job into a deposit and a balance helps close more work. Learn how to do it without taking on any risk.
The problem with full payment upfront
Many jobs over €1,000 never get the go-ahead because the client doesn't want to, or can't, pay everything at once. It isn't that the price is wrong, the total amount is simply a lot to hand over in one go.
When you split the job into a deposit and a balance, you remove the main barrier. "€1,000 now, €1,000 when the fuse board's in, €1,000 on completion" is psychologically very different from "€3,000 now".
How to structure it with Prummo
Prummo lets you set a deposit percentage directly on the quote. When the client opens the link on WhatsApp, they see the total, the deposit amount due before you start, and the balance due on completion, with your IBAN included for both.
The process: 1. You create the quote normally in Prummo 2. You set the deposit (commonly 30% to 50%) 3. Send it via WhatsApp 4. The client accepts and transfers the deposit to your account 5. You start the job once the deposit lands, and mark it as paid 6. The client transfers the balance on completion
You don't need any extra tools or accounts. It's the same bank transfer the client would make anyway, just split and clearly labelled.
Is it safe? Who takes the risk?
Because you're paid directly by bank transfer, there's no third party holding your money or taking a cut. The deposit lands in your account before you buy materials, which is what actually protects you.
The main risk to manage is timing: don't buy materials or block out a day for the job until the deposit has actually landed, not just been "sent". Bank transfers between Irish accounts (and SEPA transfers across the eurozone) are usually quick, often within a couple of hours, but it's worth waiting for confirmation rather than a screenshot.
All quote and payment details are recorded in Prummo with a timestamp, so if there's ever a dispute about what was agreed, you've a clear record.
When to use a deposit and balance structure
A deposit and balance split makes the biggest difference on jobs over €500. Examples:
- Consumer unit replacement (€870) → €260 deposit, €610 on completion
- Full apartment paint job (€2,200) → €700 deposit, €1,500 on completion
- Air conditioning installation (€3,500) → €1,050 deposit, €2,450 on completion
- Automatic gate (€3,000) → €900 deposit, €2,100 on completion
You don't need to "sell" the split. Just set the deposit percentage in Prummo when you build the quote, and the client sees it clearly laid out from the start.
Frequently asked questions
Does Prummo support instalment or credit-style payments in Ireland?
No. Prummo quotes in Ireland are set up for bank transfer and cash, not card or consumer credit. A deposit and balance structure, both paid by bank transfer, is the safe way to spread the cost without taking on credit risk.
How much should I ask for as a deposit?
30% to 50% of the total is standard for jobs over €500 to €1,000. For very material-heavy jobs, where you're laying out a lot upfront, lean towards the higher end.
What if the client doesn't pay the balance on completion?
Agree the balance is due on the day the job is signed off, and say so clearly on the quote. Most clients pay on the spot once they can see the finished work. Keeping a clear paper trail through Prummo, from the original quote to the deposit received, makes it straightforward to follow up if needed.