Statement of Work (SoW) Template
A Statement of Work is used when a project scope is too complex to cover in a proposal alone. It's a binding document that defines exactly what will be delivered, when, and under what conditions — making it essential for larger or ongoing engagements.
STATEMENT OF WORK
Project: {{project_name}}
Client: {{client_name}}
Contractor: {{your_name}}
Effective Date: {{sow_date}}
1. PROJECT OVERVIEW
{{project_overview}}
2. SCOPE OF WORK
In-scope:
• {{in_scope_1}}
• {{in_scope_2}}
• {{in_scope_3}}
Out of scope:
• {{out_of_scope_1}}
• {{out_of_scope_2}}
3. DELIVERABLES & MILESTONES
Milestone 1 — {{milestone_1_name}}: {{milestone_1_deliverable}} by {{milestone_1_date}}
Milestone 2 — {{milestone_2_name}}: {{milestone_2_deliverable}} by {{milestone_2_date}}
Milestone 3 — {{milestone_3_name}}: {{milestone_3_deliverable}} by {{milestone_3_date}}
4. ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA
{{acceptance_criteria}}
5. ASSUMPTIONS & DEPENDENCIES
• Client will provide {{client_responsibility_1}} by {{dependency_date_1}}
• {{assumption_1}}
6. FEES
Total: {{total_fee}} | Payment schedule: {{payment_schedule}}
Signed:
Contractor: _________________ Date: _______
Client: _____________________ Date: _______How to use this template
- 1Use a SoW for projects over $5K or with complex, multi-phase scope.
- 2The Out of Scope section is as important as In Scope — it prevents scope creep.
- 3Acceptance criteria protects both parties — define what 'done' means before starting.
Template variables
Replace each {{variable}} in the template with your actual information.
Frequently asked questions
A proposal is a sales document — it pitches your approach and price. A SoW is a legal document — it defines binding commitments. Use both: propose first, then document in a SoW once agreed.
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Retainer Agreement
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