Question 1

How long is a journalist quote valid for?

Accepted Answer

Most journalist quotes are valid for 14 to 30 days from the issue date. State the expiry clearly on the quote. After the validity period lapses, prices for materials, availability, and subcontractor rates may have changed, so you are not bound by the original figure. If a client returns after expiry, issue a revised quote rather than honouring a stale one.

Question 2

What happens if the scope changes after the quote is accepted?

Accepted Answer

Any change to the agreed scope should be handled with a written change order before the additional work begins. Do not simply add extra charges to the final invoice without prior client approval. Document what changed, why, and the revised cost. Clients who understand the reason for scope changes are far less likely to dispute additional charges. Build a process for this into your quoting terms from the start.

Question 3

Should a journalist quote include a deposit?

Accepted Answer

Yes, for most projects. A deposit of 25 to 50 percent is standard and confirms the client is committed before you commit resources or turn away other work. State the deposit amount and when it is due on the quote itself. Deposits also protect you if the client cancels after preparation work has begun. For small, quick jobs a deposit may not be necessary, but for anything lasting more than a few days it is strongly advisable.

Question 4

How detailed should my journalist quote be?

Accepted Answer

Detailed enough that neither party can reasonably misinterpret what is included. Break the scope into specific deliverables, list rates per item or phase, and explicitly state what is not included (materials, travel, third-party fees, rush surcharges). Vague quotes lead to scope creep and payment disputes. A quote that is specific protects both you and the client, and speeds up acceptance because the client does not need to chase clarification.

Question 5

Can I convert an accepted journalist quote into an invoice?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and you should. Once the work is complete, create an invoice that references the original quote number. The line items, rates, and totals should match the accepted quote exactly unless a change order was issued. Tidybill lets you convert accepted quotes into invoices in one step, keeping the audit trail clean and making it easy for clients to match the invoice to what they approved.

Question 6

Do I need to include tax (VAT/GST) on a quote?

Accepted Answer

If you are VAT or GST registered, you must show tax on your quotes. Quoting ex-tax when the client expects an all-inclusive price leads to disputes at invoice stage. Show the net amount, the tax rate, the tax amount, and the gross total separately. If you are not registered for tax, state that clearly on the quote so there is no ambiguity. Always check the rules in your jurisdiction, as tax obligations vary.

Question 7

Can I use this quote template for free?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Tidybill's free plan lets you create up to 5 quotes per month at no cost, with no credit card required. You can use the Journalist quote template straight away after signing up.

Service	Typical Rate	Unit
News Article (up to 500 words)	£50 - £200	per article
Feature Article (1,000-2,000 words)	£200 - £1,000	per article
Investigative Feature (3,000+ words)	£500 - £2,000+	per piece
Interview / Profile (1,000-1,500 words)	£200 - £800	per piece
Travel & Research Expenses	At cost	per piece
Photography (if also providing pictures)	£50 - £300	per image

Free Journalist Quote Template

What is a Journalist quote?

What to include on a Journalist quote

Common journalist quote line items

How to quote as a journalist

Create your journalist quote in minutes

Frequently asked questions