The payment sequence most recommended among freelancers comes down to three steps: quote accepted, deposit on order, balance on delivery. It isn't a posture of distrust, it's a standard practice that splits the risk on both sides instead of putting all of it on the freelancer.
The deposit, as soon as the quote is accepted
A deposit (often around 30%) asked for before you start commits the client as much as it commits you. If they cancel after signing but before you begin, you haven't worked for nothing.
Milestones for long projects
On a project spread over several weeks, avoid waiting until the very end for the second payment. Break it into milestones tied to concrete deliverables (sign-off on an intermediate stage) rather than arbitrary dates: each milestone reached limits what can go unpaid if the project stops partway through.
The balance, before the final file
The last payment is settled before you hand over the final deliverable, not after. It's the one moment where you keep real leverage: once the file is sent, you have nothing left to negotiate.
With Paylock on xFer, this rule is enforced automatically: the client sees their delivery, but the final download stays locked until the balance is paid. You don't have to remind them, the system handles it.
In short
Deposit on order, milestones on long projects, balance before the final file. A sequence announced from the quote onward protects your cash flow without ever giving the impression you doubt the client.