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Freelance contract template

Reviewed by Clausery editors · · 3 min read

A simple freelance contract covering scope, fee, payment terms, IP, revisions, late fees, confidentiality and termination. Fill it in online and download it as an editable Word file or printable PDF, ready to sign.

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A freelance contract sets out what you will do, how much you will be paid, who owns the work, and how either side can end it. It prevents the arguments that come from handshake deals - especially around scope creep, revisions and late payment.

This template is based on the independent contractor agreement, tuned for single-engagement freelance work (rather than ongoing arrangements). It has a clear scope section, optional kill fee, IP assignment on payment, and a short confidentiality clause.

What to include#

  • Scope of work. What you will deliver, plus how many rounds of revisions are included and what counts as extra work.
  • Fee and payment. Project fee or hourly rate, payment schedule (deposit / milestones / on completion), late fee wording.
  • Intellectual property. Work transfers to the client once invoices are paid; you keep portfolio rights.
  • Revisions and scope changes. Number of included revision rounds, and how change orders are priced and approved.
  • Confidentiality and termination. Each side keeps information private; either side can end on written notice with payment for work done.

How to fill it in#

  1. Step 1: Name both parties and the project

    Your name (or business name) and the client, plus a short project title and the date.

  2. Step 2: Describe the deliverables

    Be specific about what is and is not included - vague scope is the #1 reason for freelance disputes.

  3. Step 3: Set the fee and schedule

    Total fee or hourly rate, deposit amount, milestone payments and the due date for each.

  4. Step 4: Add IP, revisions and kill-fee terms

    IP transfers on payment; set included revision rounds; choose whether either side can kill the project mid-way and what is owed.

  5. Step 5: Sign and start work

    Both sides sign (e-signature or wet signature); each keeps a copy before work begins.

Independent contractor agreement

For ongoing contractor engagements.

Freelance invoice template

Bill against the contract once work is done or milestones hit.

Consulting agreement

For advisory and consulting engagements.

Retainer agreement

For ongoing monthly work.

How to write a freelance contract

Ten clauses that matter.

Questions

Do I need a contract for every freelance job?

For small jobs with repeat clients you might skip it, but any project with real money, IP or deadlines deserves a written contract. Verbal agreements are hard to prove.

Who owns freelance work before payment?

Until invoices are paid, you usually own the copyright. The contract should state that IP transfers on final payment, which gives you leverage if the client does not pay.

Can I use this for ongoing work?

Use the retainer agreement or independent contractor agreement for ongoing work; this template is for a defined single project.

Should I ask for a deposit?

Yes for most freelance projects - 25% to 50% upfront is standard. It secures your schedule and reduces exposure if the client pulls out.

Do I need a lawyer?

For standard freelance engagements this template covers the key clauses. Have it reviewed by a lawyer for high-value work, unusual terms, or if your jurisdiction has specific rules.

Browse all templates →

These are general templates, not legal or tax advice. Have anything unusual reviewed for your jurisdiction.

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