Request files from clients
without the back-and-forth

How Jotask file requests work

Jotask vs Dropbox File Request vs WeTransfer vs Email

Simple upload tools work for ad-hoc sharing. They break for professional client onboarding.

Frequently asked questions about file requests

How do I request files from clients online?

With Jotask, you create a checklist of exactly the files you need, set a deadline, and click send. Your client receives a personalised link by email. They click it, open a branded portal in any browser, and upload each item directly. No sign-up, no app, no password. You see a live dashboard of what's arrived and what's still missing — and Jotask sends automatic reminders so you never have to chase manually.

What is a file request link?

A file request link is a URL you share with a client so they can upload specific files to you without needing your email address or a shared drive. Simple services (like Dropbox File Request or WeTransfer) give you a generic upload box. Jotask goes further: your link opens a branded portal that lists exactly which files are expected, tracks each one individually, shows deadlines, and sends automatic follow-up reminders if items are still missing.

Can my clients upload files without creating an account?

Yes. When you send a file request, your client receives a personalised magic link. They click it and land on a branded portal in their browser — no sign-up, no password, no app to install. Removing that friction means far fewer ignored requests and less back-and-forth.

What's the difference between Jotask and Dropbox File Request?

Dropbox File Request gives you a single generic upload box. There's no checklist of expected items, no automatic reminders, no deadline enforcement, and no branding. Jotask lets you specify each file individually, tracks what's missing, sends escalating reminders, pauses work automatically when deadlines pass, and shows your logo — not Dropbox's. Jotask is also free to self-host under the AGPL licence.

Does Jotask send automatic reminders if a client doesn't upload?

Yes. Jotask sends three automatic reminder emails — polite, then firm, then urgent — spaced across the days before and after the deadline. Each email includes a direct link back to the portal so the client can complete their upload immediately. You never need to write a follow-up email manually.

Can I request more than just files — like answers, passwords, or approvals?

Yes. A Jotask checklist can include file uploads, text answers (e.g. business address or VAT number), encrypted credential notes (passwords stored AES-256, readable once then gone), and sign-off checkboxes. You get everything you need in a single request link instead of multiple emails.

Is Jotask free to use for file requests?

Yes. You can self-host Jotask on any VPS with one Docker command — unlimited file requests, unlimited clients, all features included, for free. Hosted plans start at 12 €/month if you'd rather skip server management. No credit card required to start.

How is Jotask different from just emailing clients and asking them to attach files?

Email works for a single file, once. It breaks for onboarding: you get partial replies, attachments split across multiple threads, files named 'final_v3_REAL.pdf', and you have to track what's still missing by hand. Jotask gives you one dashboard per client that shows exactly which items arrived, which are pending, and which are overdue — and handles the follow-up automatically.