Absolutely. I'd also like to add a few options I've seen (or have used) in my experience both in hiring freelancers and being one myself: One illustrator I engaged who worked on a flat fee basis had an agreement that 100% payment was due before work began for the first project, then future projects would involve increments (1/3 up front, 1/3 on a specified date in the middle of the project, 1/3 within 30 days of completion). I liked his terms because they both protected him as a freelancer (full payment first) and rewarded clients for establishing a relationship with him (increments thereafter). In my freelance work (hourly rates), I've always provided written estimates and let the client know up front that 50% of the estimate was due upon signing of a work agreement and that the balance (whether less than estimated or more) would be due within 30 days of receipt of invoice. And if I think the project is getting close to the estimate or might go over pretty soon, I let my client know right away so he/she never feels in the dark. Clients have responded really well to the transparency, which has built up some really great professional relationships due to the trust. It's true that money is a tough thing to talk about, especially when you love what you do, but anyone in business knows that it is just part of the job. If you walk into a situation with confidence and a plan (in writing!), you will build respect and--hopefully--even more business!

Totally agreed. After my first few jobs that were torture to get paid on time/at all, I started implementing very firm procedures with my clients that laid out not only what they could expect from me in terms of deliverables, versions, etc. but also what I expected from them in terms of payment, their treatment of me, and the content they would be providing. My work life has been exponentially better ever since.