Most shoots take a retainer deposit up front and the balance before delivery. From the total and a deposit percentage, compute both amounts — and split the balance into installments if needed.
The example
$2,000 total, 30% deposit.
| A | B | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Item | Value |
| 2 | Deposit 30% | $600 |
| 3 | Balance | → $1,400 |
The formula
The formula:
How it works
How it works:
- Deposit = total × deposit percentage, rounded to cents.
- Balance = total − deposit — due before delivery.
- Split the balance into installments: balance ÷ n, with the last payment plugged to tie out.
- A nonrefundable retainer holds the date and covers your opportunity cost.
The deposit is a date-holder, not a discount. A nonrefundable retainer commits the client and compensates you for turning away other bookings on that date. Compute deposit and balance from the total so they always reconcile, and if you offer a payment plan, plug the final installment (total − deposit − sum of prior payments) so the schedule sums exactly to the contract price.
Try it: interactive demo
Total and deposit %.
Variations
Balance due
Total − deposit:
Installment amount
Split the balance:
Final installment (plug)
Tie to total:
Pitfalls & errors
Balance from total. Compute balance as total − deposit so they reconcile.
Plug the last payment. Rounded installments need a residual to total exactly.
Nonrefundable retainer. State the terms in the contract.
Practice workbook
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate a deposit and balance in Excel?
How do I split the balance into payments?
Why take a deposit?
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