The amount of a catering deposit will depend on the circumstances of the job. For example, a couple getting married may wish to serve a special dish at their wedding that may require the caterer to preorder the item in advance.
A standard catering deposit will typically be between 10-50% of the total catering bill. Caterers should determine how much of the deposit is refundable in the event that the client cancels the event. For example, if a client cancels within one month of the event, the deposit may be fully refundable. However, if they cancel within a week of the event, the caterer may determine that they will not return the deposit. Whatever the caterer decides, it’s important to communicate this information clearly when the client submits the deposit.