Every other freelancer has found themselves in this humiliating situation at least once in their life. A client comes in with a pressing project, talks eloquently about a long-term partnership, but when asked for an advance payment, they start evading: “Our accounting department only pays upon completion,” “Let’s show you the first drafts, and we’ll transfer the money right away.” You believe them, spend your weekends, deliver the work on time… and the client disappears without a trace, blocking you on all messaging apps. Remember once and for all: working without an advance payment (or without an official, secure contract) is a sign of disrespect for your own work. A reputable business is always willing to pay an advance because they value a specialist’s time. If a client throws a tantrum over a demand for a 50% advance payment, that’s the main indicator that you can’t work with them.