Commercial terms & deal structure · Core

Upfront payment

Also called: advance payment

ELI5

Payment due before delivery or service begins.

Used in conversation

“The draft mentions upfront payment, but the scope and jurisdiction are still unclear.”

Pitch context

You will see “Upfront payment” in go-to-market plans, sales forecasts, account reviews and commercial proposals when the discussion reaches commercial terms & deal structure.

Why it matters: In commercial terms & deal structure, a loose definition can change rights, obligations, approval, disclosure or enforceability.

Caution

Meaning, enforceability and required process vary by jurisdiction and agreement; this definition is not legal advice.

Sources & evidence · 3

Direct term-level sources and supporting source families.