What to put in a freelance contract before you start work

A short written agreement protects you and your client. It doesn't need to be long. It needs to answer a handful of questions clearly, before the first hour of work, so nobody has to guess later.

1. Scope of work

Describe what you will deliver, and what you won't. "Logo, colour palette and a one-page brand guide" is clearer than "branding". If something is often assumed but not included, such as source files or printing, say so.

If it isn't written down, it's open to interpretation.

2. Deliverables and dates

List each deliverable with a date. If your dates depend on the client, such as feedback, content or access to their accounts, say that the timeline moves when their part is late.

3. Fee and payment terms

State the fee, the currency, and whether it is a fixed price, a monthly retainer or a rate per hour or day. Then say when each payment is due. For project work, a common pattern is part of the fee upfront and the rest on delivery.

Add what happens when a payment is late, for example a reminder and then a pause in work. If you charge GST, say whether the fee includes it.

4. Rounds of changes

Say how many rounds of changes are included and what counts as a round. Extra rounds can be billed at your usual rate. This one line prevents most arguments about scope.

5. Who owns the work

Say who owns the finished work and when ownership passes. Many freelancers transfer rights only once the final payment arrives, and keep the right to show the work in their portfolio unless the client objects.

6. Confidentiality

If you will see the client's plans, customer data or unreleased products, include a confidentiality clause, or sign a separate NDA before the project starts.

7. Ending the agreement

Explain how either side can end the agreement early, how much notice is needed, and what is paid for work already done. Name the governing law and the city whose courts will hear any dispute.

Get it signed before you start

Send the agreement for signature before any work begins. With an e-signature, your client can sign on their phone in a minute, and you both get the signed PDF with a record of who signed and when.

Closign's freelance / service agreement template covers each of these points. Answer its questions about the work, deliverables, dates, rounds of changes, fee and payment terms, and change any clause you want before you send it.