When to Use This Message
Send an Additional Fee Request when:
- A client asked for work beyond the original scope you quoted.
- Extra revisions, rush turnaround, or new deliverables came up mid-project.
- You want to be paid fairly for work that exceeds what was originally agreed.
- You'd rather flag the cost before doing the extra work than bill for it as a surprise.
Message Writing Tips
- Reference the Original Scope: Briefly remind the client what was originally agreed so the additional fee is clearly tied to extra work, not a price change.
- Itemize the Extra Work: List specifically what's being added (pages, revisions, hours) so the fee feels justified rather than arbitrary.
- State the Fee Clearly: Give an exact amount or rate rather than a vague 'it'll cost more' — this avoids back-and-forth.
- Offer to Discuss Before Proceeding: Especially for larger fees, invite a quick conversation so the client feels consulted, not billed after the fact.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I raise an additional fee — before or after doing the work?
Always before, if possible. Flagging the cost upfront avoids disputes and gives the client a chance to adjust scope instead.
What if the client pushes back on the fee?
Point back to the original scope and explain what's outside of it — having a written agreement to reference makes this much easier.
Should I build buffer into future quotes to avoid this?
Many freelancers do — but for current scope creep, this message is the right way to formally document and bill for the extra work.