Who is described as the individual who makes an advance payment for something?

The individual who makes an advance payment for something is best described as a subscriber. A subscriber typically engages in a subscription-based model, where they pay upfront for access to services or content over a period of time. This model is commonly seen in various industries, such as publishing, software services, and telecommunication, where individuals or entities enter into an agreement to receive goods or services regularly in return for their advance payment.

In contrast, a benefactor generally provides support or funding for a cause or organization without the expectation of receiving a service in return, which does not align with the idea of an advance payment for a specific service. Similarly, an investor contributes capital with the goal of earning a financial return, often expecting to buy equity or debt rather than making a direct payment for ongoing access to something. A donor typically gives a gift or makes a charitable contribution, which also lacks the transactional nature of an advance payment for a subscription or service. Thus, the term subscriber is most fitting for describing someone who makes advance payments for ongoing access.