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 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
- 1Have both parties sign before work begins — not after.
- 2This is a template; consult a lawyer for high-value or complex engagements.
- 3Keep a signed copy for your records.
Template variables
Replace each {{variable}} in the template with your actual information.
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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Retainer Agreement
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