Contractor Payment Schedule Calculator

Distribute total contract across milestones (deposit / start / mid / completion) by % allocation.

Inputs

Result

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General calculation reads

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How to use this calculator

  • Enter total contract value.
  • Adjust milestone %s — must sum to 100%.
  • Tie payments to inspections passed, not dates.
  • Show this schedule to your contractor before signing.

About this calculator

A clean payment schedule protects both sides. Common residential structures: 10% deposit, 25% at start, 30% mid, 20% at rough-in completion, 15% at final inspection. Front-loading favors the contractor; back-loading protects the homeowner. Most state contractor licensing boards cap deposits at 10-20% by law (CA: $1,000 or 10% whichever less). Always tie milestones to objective triggers (rough plumbing inspection passed, drywall hung) — never just to dates.

Frequently asked

Is 10% deposit standard?+
In most states yes. CA: $1,000 or 10% (whichever less) by law. NY: 25% allowed. Check your state's contractor licensing board.
Should I avoid front-loaded schedules?+
Yes — if the contractor walks at 50% paid for 30% work, you have no leverage. Aim to never be more than 10% ahead of completed work.
When is "mid-project"?+
Tie to a tangible event: framing complete, all rough-ins inspected. Not "halfway through".
What's a final/completion payment?+
Held until punch list is complete and final inspection passed. This is your leverage to get the small stuff fixed.
Lien releases?+
Get a lien waiver from the GC AND each material supplier/subcontractor at every milestone. Otherwise a sub can lien your house even though you paid the GC.

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