Anecdotally, I feel like more providers ask for deposits now than they did previously.

I've paid them. For the most part, it has worked well for me. But yea, you gotta be well established or have a firm web presence for me to pay a deposit.

There are alot of scams out there because deposits are a great way to avoid wasting time

I've started asking for a deposit because when I come to Atlanta I would have some cancel and because I am low volume I do not book many so if I have 1 or two cancel it throws my whole trip off.

IMO I think if it is going to be a long distance drive (30+ miles) , get a deposit. Or if it is an overnight, then it makes sense. Otherwise, I think it is in poor taste to request a deposit- just my opinion. Things happen on both ends and sometimes we  just can't make it. There is more than enough business out here to fill in those openings.

Ha! Ok old thread but I just found it. About a month ago I contacted a provider for an incall appointment. We have been together 4 previous times. She texted that she would need a deposit after being burned too many times!

I didn't tell her that was like a kick in the balls with a running start. I didn't send a deposit either. I did take her off my favorite's list.  

Seems to me like I earned that and maybe a bit of trust after four visits. In any event, I wholeheartedly respect a provider's right to conduct her business as she see's fit. She just won't conduct any more of it with me. Respect that.