DPFS Templates
Freelance

Freelance Client Contract Template

A freelance contract isn't about distrust — it's about clarity. The best contracts prevent disputes by making expectations explicit before work begins. This template covers the essential legal and professional elements for most freelance engagements.

Freelance Client Contract Template
FREELANCE SERVICE AGREEMENT

Between: {{your_name}} ("Contractor")
And: {{client_name}} ("Client")
Date: {{contract_date}}
Project: {{project_name}}

1. SERVICES
Contractor agrees to provide: {{service_description}}

2. DELIVERABLES
{{deliverable_list}}

3. TIMELINE
Start date: {{start_date}} | Completion: {{end_date}}
Milestones: {{milestones}}

4. PAYMENT
Total fee: {{total_fee}}
Schedule: {{payment_schedule}}
Late payment: Invoices unpaid after {{payment_terms}} days subject to {{late_fee}} monthly fee.

5. REVISIONS
{{revision_rounds}} rounds of revisions included.
Additional revisions billed at {{hourly_rate}}/hr.

6. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
All IP transfers to Client upon receipt of final payment in full.

7. CONFIDENTIALITY
Both parties agree to keep project details confidential.

8. TERMINATION
Either party may terminate with {{notice_period}} written notice.
Contractor retains fees for work completed to date.

Signed:
Contractor: _________________ Date: _______
Client: _____________________ Date: _______

How to use this template

  1. 1Have both parties sign before work begins — not after.
  2. 2This is a template; consult a lawyer for high-value or complex engagements.
  3. 3Keep a signed copy for your records.

Template variables

Replace each {{variable}} in the template with your actual information.

VariableDescriptionExample
{{your_name}}Your full legal nameJordan Lee
{{client_name}}Client's legal name or companyAcme Corp LLC
{{project_name}}Project name or descriptionBrand Identity Redesign
{{service_description}}Services you're providingbrand strategy, logo design, and brand guidelines document
{{total_fee}}Total project fee$4,500
{{payment_terms}}Days before late fee applies14
{{late_fee}}Monthly late payment fee1.5%
{{revision_rounds}}Number of revision rounds included2
{{notice_period}}Notice period for termination7 days'

Frequently asked questions

For projects under $5,000, this template is typically sufficient. For larger engagements or complex IP situations, a 1-hour legal review is worth the investment.

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