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Freelance Contract Template

Here's what you'll find in the Freelance Contract:

  • A contract template for freelancer agreements
  • Tips for those entering into freelancer agreements on things to avoid, key items to pay attention to, and general resources which may be helpful
  • Advice on getting contracts signed quickly, digitally, and legally
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Freelance Contract Template

A freelance contract or independent contractor agreement is a legally binding document between two parties for a particular project or service. A freelancer usually has a specialized set of skills that makes them the best candidate for the project or desired service. What is in this Freelance Contract Template?

  • A freelance contract is used when an individual is hired to complete a specific task or service on a long or short-term basis.
  • This pdf template provides space to list services to be performed and payment structure.
  • Blanket legal provisions generally found in contracts.

The Who, What, When, Where, Why, and Hows of a Freelance Contract It is important to establish the who, what, when, where, why, and hows of the client-freelancer relationship.

  • Who – The “who” to a freelance contract identifies the specific parties to the agreement. It should state the company or client is hiring the freelancer and who the freelancer is, along with their relevant contact information.
  • What – The “what” to the contract defines what services the freelancer is to provide.
  • When – the “when” notes the “effective date,” which is the date that the contract becomes effective. The contract may include an official end date, but some do not. If it does not include an end date, the agreement should consist of a termination clause that establishes how the agreement is to be terminated and how many days’ notice is required.
  • Where – Typically, freelances work in a remote location. However, if they are expected to work on a specific job site, that should be specified in the contract.
  • Why – There are notable contrasts between freelancers and employees. It is vital that the freelancer is not considered or classified as an employee and does not receive the same benefits or rights that an employee is usually entitled to.
  • How – The “how” of a freelance contract determines how the freelancer will be paid. The agreed-upon hourly rate or flat fee should be detailed in the agreement.

  Why do you need a Freelance Contract? Several businesses hire freelancers for a variety of projects. There are also a great deal of short-term projects that a freelancer can work on. Freelancers are hired to write blogs, redesign websites, code software, research, and much more. Event planners also freelance contracts such as wedding planners, photographers, catering services, and other events. Other names for a freelance contract include:

  • Independent Contractor Agreement
  • Independent Consultant Agreement
  • Freelancing Agreement
  • Freelancer Agreement
  • Company Contractor Agreement
  • Freelance Contractor Agreement
  • Service Agreement
  • Contractor Agreement

What Should be Covered in a Freelance Contract? A freelance contract will vary based upon client’s needs and nature of the project. However, here are a few essential components to a freelance contract:

  • Parties to the agreement (Client/Company and Freelancer)
  • Effective Date
  • Details of Services and Expectations
  • Clear definitions of the freelancer’s role
  • Completion Date and Deliverables / Termination policy and procedures
  • Compensation / Payment Structure
  • Indemnification provision

Common Mistakes to Avoid when Drafting a Freelance Contract Enforceable contracts are the most concrete way to ensure both the client and freelancer are on the same page about the service or project. A few common mistakes include:

  • An overly broad and vague description of services to be provided
  • Misclassification of Freelancer as an employee
  • Inaccurate Information /misidentifying the parties
  • Leaving out Payment Terms
  • Dates and project deadlines
  • Failing to consult an attorney to obtain legal advice

Differences Between an Independent Contractor and Employee There are some major differences between a freelancer and an employee. The differences deal with the legal and tax requirements that an employee has that a freelancer may not.  Freelancers are usually self-employed and use their own supplies and equipment. One major distinction is that freelancers responsible for paying their taxes, whereas, with an employee, the company is responsible for paying state and federal taxes (employment taxes, income taxes, social security). Freelancers are not granted vacation pay, sick pay, or workers’ compensation. Additionally, freelancers are not eligible to receive unemployment compensation. Generally, freelancers are not entitled to employee benefits and are responsible for obtaining their own health insurance. Some companies offer employees insurance or other benefit packages. Misclassifying a freelancer as an employee or vice versa could have serious legal and tax consequences. How to get your Freelance Contract Signed With the help of ApproveMe, getting your freelance contract signed is a breeze. Electronic signatures are legally binding. Since freelancers usually operate remotely, acquiring an e-signature is the quickest and most convenient way for the client and freelancer. Freelancer Collaboration Resources  Freelancers need to be organized and maintain control of their projects. Freelancers should incorporate management software to stay organized and on task. Here are some freelancer management tools to consider:

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Freelance Contract

This Freelance Contract (“Contract”) dated on this ___ day of  _______, 20__ (the “Effective Date”) is made between ________________________(the “Client ”) and _________________________________ (the “Freelancer”), herein collectively referred to as the “Parties” for the purpose of setting forth the exclusive terms and conditions by which Client desires to acquire the Freelancer’s services. In consideration of the mutual obligations specified in this Contract, the parties, intending to be legally bound hereby, agree to the following: Services. The Client retains the above Freelancer, and the Freelancer agrees to perform for the Client, certain services set forth in Exhibit A to this Contract (the “Services”). Any Service or additional work outside of the scope as defined in Exhibit A to this Contract may require a new Contract for other Services agreed to by the Parties. Consideration and Compensation. In exchange for the full, prompt, and satisfactory performance of all Services to be rendered to the Client, the Freelancer shall be compensated as follows: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ The Freelancer will invoice the Client on the _____ day of each month. The invoice will include any and all services performed under this Contract as well as any pre-approved expenses. Payment will be due within _____ days of the invoice date. A late charge of $_______ per month will be added to any invoice not paid on time. Payments must be made to the Freelancer by credit card, money order, check, or any other approved method of payment accepted by the Freelancer. Payments must be mailed to: ________________________ ________________________ ________________________ ________________________ Expenses. From time to time throughout the duration of this Freelance Contract, the Freelancer may incur certain expenses that are not included as part of the Fee for our Services to this Contract. The Freelancer agrees to keep an exact record of any and all expenses acquired while performing the Services. The Freelancer will submit an invoice itemizing each expense, along with proof of purchase and receipt, every ______ days upon completion of such Services. If any one expense if over $_____, the Freelancer agrees to obtain the Client’s written consent before making the purchase. Invoice Disputes. The Client shall notify the Freelancer in writing of any dispute with an invoice along with any substantiating documentation or a reasonably detailed description of the dispute within _____ Business Days from the date of the Client’s receipt of such invoice subject to dispute. The Client will be deemed to have accepted all invoices for which the Freelancer does not receive timely notification of a dispute and shall pay all undisputed amounts due under such invoices within the period set forth in this Contract. The Parties shall seek to resolve all such disputes expeditiously and in good faith. Term and Termination. This Freelance Contract shall be effective on the date hereof and shall continue for a period of _______ ([month[s]/year[s]) or until the expressly agree upon date of the completion of the Services, unless it is earlier terminated in accordance with the terms of this Contract (the “Term”). If either Party subject to this Contract fails to follow through with their obligations under this Freelance Contract, the non-breaching Party can terminate this Contract by providing ____ day written notice to the breaching Party. The Client understands that the Freelancer may terminate this Contract at any time if the Client fails to pay for the Services provided under this Contract or if the Client breaches any other material provision listed in this Freelance Contract in the manner as defined above. Client agrees to pay any outstanding balances within _____ days of termination. Supplies and Equipment. The Freelancer, at their own expense, shall furnish their own supplies and equipment necessary to deliver and complete the Services as defined under this Contract unless otherwise agreed upon by the parties. Should the Client not furnish the agreed upon supplies, the Client understands they will be responsible for reimbursing the Freelancer for all expenses incurred. Independent Contractor. The Client and Freelancer expressly agree and understand that the above-listed Freelancer is a contractor hired by the Client and nothing in this Contract shall be construed in any way or manner, to create between them a relationship of employer and employee, principal and agent, partners or any other relationship other than that of independent parties contracting with each other solely for the purpose of carrying out the provisions of the Contract. Accordingly, the Freelancer acknowledges that neither the Freelancer and the Freelancer’s Employees are not eligible for any Company benefits, including, but not limited to, health insurance, retirement plans or stock option plans. The Freelancer is not the agent of Client or the Client’s Company and is not authorized and shall not have the power or authority to bind the Client or the Client’s Company or incur any liability or obligation, or act on behalf of Client or the Client’s Company. At no time shall the Freelancer represent that it is an agent of the Client or the Client’s Company, or that any of the views, advice, statements and/or information that may be provided while performing the Services are those of the Client. The Freelancer is solely responsible for directing and controlling the performance of the Services, including the time, place and manner in which the Services are performed. The Freelancer shall use its best efforts, energy and skill in its own name and in such manner as it sees fit. Insurance. The Freelancer warrants that it will obtain and keep in full force and effect at all times hereunder workers’ compensation, general liability and errors and omissions or professional liability insurance covering all of its Services.   The Freelancer shall provide to the Client copies of all policies required to be maintained, and a Certificate of Insurance indicating said coverage shall be provided to Client upon request. The Freelancer also warrants and represents that it has properly classified all of its workers, has and will maintain all required licenses and certifications. Confidentiality. Throughout the duration of this Contract. it may be necessary for the Freelancer to have access to the Client’s confidential and protected information for the sole purpose of performing the Services subject to this Contract. The Freelancer is not permitted to share or disclose such confidential information whatsoever, unless mandated by law, without written permission from the Client. The Freelancer’s obligation of confidentiality will survive the termination of this Freelance Contract and stay in place indefinitely. Upon the termination of this Contract, the Freelancer agrees to return to the Client any and all Confidential Information that is the property of the Client. Return of Property. The Freelancer shall promptly return to the Client all copies, whether in written, electronic, or other form or media, of the Client’s Confidential Information, or destroy all such copies and certify in writing to the Client that such Confidential Information has been destroyed. In addition, the Freelancer shall also destroy all copies of any Notes created by the Freelancer or its authorized Representatives and certify in writing to the Client that such copies have been destroyed. Intellectual Property Rights. All Intellectual Property and related materials, including but not limited to, moral rights, goodwill, trade secrets, applications for registrations or relevant registration, rights to any trademark, trade tress, patent, copyright, trade name, and industrial design (“Intellectual Property”) that is produced or developed under this Freelance Contract. The Freelancer understands that the aforementioned is a “work for hire” and shall be the sole property of the Client. The Client’s use of the Intellectual Property shall not be restricted in any manner. The Freelancer may not use the Client’s Intellectual Property for any purpose other than contracted for in this Freelance Contract unless the Freelancer has written consent from the Client. The Freelancer shall be responsible for any damages resulting from any unauthorized use of the Client’s intellectual property. Indemnification and Release. The Freelancer agrees to take all necessary precautions to prevent injury to any persons or damage to property during the term of this Contract, and shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless the Client, its officers, directors, shareholders, employees, representatives and/or agents from any claim, liability, loss, cost, damage, judgment, settlement or expense (including attorney’s fees) resulting from or arising in any way out of injury (including death) to any person or damage to property arising in any way out of any act, error, omission or negligence on the part of the Freelancer or any of the Freelancer’s employees in the performance or failure to fulfill any Services or obligations under this Contract. No Exclusivity. The Parties subject to this Contract understand and acknowledge that this Contract is not exclusive. Each Party respectively agree that they are free to enter into other similar Contracts with other parties. Dispute Resolution and Governing Law. The Parties to this Contract shall first attempt to settle any dispute through good-faith negotiation. If the dispute cannot be settled between the parties via negotiation, either party may initiate mediation or binding arbitration in the State of ________________. If the parties do not wish to mediate or arbitrate the dispute and litigation is necessary, this Contract will be interpreted based on the laws of the State of _________________, without regard to the conflict of law provisions of such state. The Parties agree the dispute will be resolved in a court of competent jurisdiction in the State of ______________________. Legal Fees. Should a dispute between the named Parties arise lead to legal action, the prevailing Party shall be entitled to any reasonable legal fees, including, but not limited to attorneys’ fees. Warranties and Representations. The Parties to this Contract fully represent that they are authorized to enter into this Freelance Contract. The obligations and performance of either the Client or Freelancer shall not infringe upon or violate the rights of any third party or violate any other Contract between the Client and Freelancer, any other individual, business entity, or formal organization, or interfere with any law and or governmental regulation. Force Majeure. The Freelancer and any of its employees or agents shall not be in breach of this Contract for any delay or failure in performance caused by reasons out of its reasonable control. This includes, but is not limited to, acts of God or a public enemy; natural calamities; failure of a third party to perform; changes in the laws or regulations; actions of any civil, military or regulatory authority; power outage or other disruptions of communication methods or any other cause which would be out of the reasonable control of the Freelancer. No Assignment. This Contract shall inure to and be binding upon the undersigned and their respective heirs, representatives, successors and permitted assigns. This Contract may not be assigned by either party without the prior written consent of the other party. Counterparts. This Contract may be executed in counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which together shall be deemed to be one and the same agreement. A signed copy of this Contract delivered by facsimile. email, or other means of electronic transmission shall be deemed to have the same legal effect as delivery of an original signed copy of this Contract. Electronic Signatures. This Contract and related documents entered into in connection with this Contract are signed when a party’s signature is delivered electronically, and these signatures must be treated in all respects as having the same force and effect as original signatures. Severability. If any term or provision of this Contract  is invalid, illegal, or unenforceable in any jurisdiction, such invalidity, illegality, or unenforceability shall not affect any other term or provision of this Contract or invalidate or render unenforceable such term or provision in any other jurisdiction. Captions for Convenience. All captions herein are for convenience or reference only and do not constitute part of this Contract and shall not be deemed to limit or otherwise affect any of the provisions hereof. No Waiver. No waiver of or failure to act upon any of the provisions of this Contract or any right or remedy arising under this Contract shall be deemed or shall constitute a waiver of any other provisions, rights or remedies (whether similar or dissimilar). Entire Agreement. This Contract constitutes the sole and entire Contract of the Parties regarding the subject matter contained herein, and supersedes all prior and contemporaneous understandings, agreements, representations, and warranties, both written and oral, regarding such subject matter. This Contract may only be amended, modified, or supplemented by an Contract t in writing signed by each Party hereto. [Signatures on Following Page]                                                 IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned have executed this Freelance Contract effective as of the _____day of ________________, 20__ (the “Effective Date”).   Dated: _______________                                                                 Dated: _______________   ________________________________________                      _______________________________________ Client’s Signature                                                                                Freelancer’s Signature ________________________________________                      _______________________________________ Client’s Printed Name or Entity                                                         Freelancer’s Printed Name or Entity   Client’s Contact Information:                                                           Freelancer’s Contact Information: Address:                                                                                                Address: _______________________________________                        _______________________________________ _______________________________________                        _______________________________________ _______________________________________                        _______________________________________ Phone Number(s):                                                                               Phone Number(s): _______________________________________                        _______________________________________ _______________________________________                        _______________________________________ Email Address: __________________________                          Email Address: __________________________                           EXHIBIT A SERVICES The Freelancer agrees to provide the following Services: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________       The Freelancer shall be entitled to be reimbursed to the following expenses: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________The Freelancer shall submit an itemized statement to the Client. After Client’s review and approval, Client shall remit expense payment within thirty (30) days after receipt/approval.       Other: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do freelancers need a contract?

Freelancers are independent workers who provide their services to companies or individuals. They usually work on a project-by-project basis and do not have a fixed employer. In order to protect themselves, freelancers should have a contract.
Contracts are important because they outline the terms of the relationship between the freelancer and their client. They also outline what happens if either party breaches these terms.
The lack of a written agreement between the freelancer and client leads to a lot of disputes over payments, ownership rights, and intellectual property.

How to make a freelance contract

A freelance contract is a document that outlines the terms of your agreement. It should be clear and concise and contains all the necessary information. A freelance contract can specify the scope of work that will be done by the freelancer, payment details, how work will be divided into tasks or milestones, deadlines for deliverables, and any other necessary information.

How to write a freelance design contract

A freelance design contract is an agreement between a freelancer and their client. It's a contract that outlines the terms of the agreement.
When writing a freelance graphic design contract template pdf, you should be mindful to include what compensation is expected, what rights the freelancer has, and what responsibilities are required of the client. This template includes items like compensation, scope of work, expenses, and termination, etc.

Do I need a contract for freelance work?

In general, you should always have a contract when you are doing freelance work for any company. A freelance contract is a legal document that is designed to protect both parties involved in the work.
Freelance contracts can protect you from being taken advantage of by your client and help clearly communicate the terms of your agreement so both parties are protected.

How to create a contract for freelance work

Contracts should be clear, concise, and include terms that are mutually agreed upon by both parties. To create a contract, you’ll need to know your client's budget, how much time they want, what type of work they need done (like logo design, website design, etc.), and their preferred payment methods (epay-per-project, hourly rates, etc.).
There are a lot of factors to consider when you are creating a contract for freelance work. Whether you are hiring or freelancing, it is important that both parties understand the terms of the contract.

How to create a freelance contract

A freelance contract is a legally binding agreement that sets out the terms and conditions of your work. If you are looking to hire a freelancer to work on your project, it is important that you create a contract with them. This will ensure that both parties are clear about what needs to be done and how much it will cost. A freelance contract can include clauses such as:
- Freelance rates
- Payment terms
- Restrictions on use of intellectual property or client information

How to make a contract for freelance work

The freelance contract is a legal agreement between the client and the freelancer. It is a document that sets out the terms and conditions of their relationship. It includes information about fees, payment dates, deadlines, credit information, intellectual property rights, and more.
In order to make sure that you have a sound contract for your freelance work, you need to be familiar with the following: What are your rights as a freelancer? How do you determine how much money you will be paid? What are the steps in making sure that your contract is legally binding?

What is a Freelance Contract Template?

A Freelance Contract Template is a legal document that sets out the terms and conditions of a contract between two or more parties. It is important to have a contract in place before starting work on any project. The type of contract will depend on the type of work being done, such as an employment contract or an agreement for services.

Who needs a Freelance Contract Template?

Freelance job contract templates are usually written when a client wants to hire a freelancer for their services. They are also used when the freelancer is hiring someone for their services as well. It’s important that all parties are protected by a contract.

What must a Freelance Contract Template have?

Freelancing is a booming industry and with the many opportunities available in this field, it is important to know what you should include in your freelance contract template.
A freelance contract can be broken down into parts:
1. Job description (what will the freelancer do)
2. Scope of work (what does the freelancer agree to do)
3. Payment terms (how will payment be made)
4. Termination clause (what happens if either party terminates their agreement).

Do Freelance Contract Template’s have to be in writing?

It is important to have a written contract between the client and freelancer because it helps with clarity and understanding of responsibilities. In addition, having a written contract can help prevent misunderstandings and disputes in the future.

Do freelance workers need a contract?

Contracts are a useful tool for freelance workers. They are a good way to protect the rights of both parties and ensure that the work is completed to the satisfaction of both parties. Having a contract is essential for all professionals because it helps avoid any misunderstandings by clearly stating the terms and holding both parties accountable for their responsibilities.

What should I put in my Freelance Contract Template?

In order to write a contract for freelance work, it's important to know what is covered by the contract, how long it lasts and who is responsible for what. A freelance agreement should cover the following:
- What are the expectations of both parties?
- Who is responsible for what?
- How long does this agreement last?
- What happens if one party doesn't follow through on their end of the agreement?

What should a freelance contract include?

As a freelancer, you should always keep in mind that you are a business. It is important for you to have a contract with your client that clearly outlines the terms of the agreement and what each party will be responsible for.
You should also include in the contract an agreement on how much work is expected of each party and how often they will communicate with one another.

How do I write a Freelance Contract?

Freelancing is a booming industry and with the many opportunities available in this field, it is important to know what you should include in your contract. A freelance contract can be broken down into parts:
1. Job description (what will the freelancer do)
2. Scope of work (what does the freelancer agree to do)
3. Payment terms (how will payment be made)
4. Termination clause (what happens if either party terminates their agreement).

How to make a Freelance Contract Template

A freelance contract template is a document that helps freelancers and clients to understand the terms and conditions of a freelance agreement. When making a freelance contract template, it’s important to remember what the rights of both parties are. It’s also helpful to think about what will happen if you breach the terms of the agreement or terminate your relationship with this client.
You can start with the freelance contract template on this page and customize it to meet your needs.

How long are Freelance Contract Template good for?

Freelance contract templates vary in terms of duration depending on the type of work done by the freelancer, the industry, and other factors such as the company’s requirements and budget. The length also depends on how long it takes for the client to pay for the work.
When writing a freelance contract template, be sure to include specific information about time lines and deliverables that apply to your scenario.

What are some Freelance Contract Template examples?

You can find a Freelance Contract Template example on this page. It contains bracketed sections that you can customize to meet your specific needs. Download the free template using the Download Contract button here, add your name and email, and receive the contract template via email.

Freelance Contracts: What should I include?

In order to protect yourself as a freelancer, it's important to include clauses in your freelance contract template. You should include these these sections in your freelance design contract template: Scope of work, Payment terms, Intellectual property rights, Confidentiality agreement, Non-disclosure agreement, Cancellation clause. You should also include any other clauses that are relevant to your project.

How do I turn this free template into a freelance graphic design contract template pdf?

You can download this freelance graphic design contract template pdf using the Download Contract button. Then you can edit the template, adding your specifics in the bracketed sections and editing the information as needed.

What needs to be in a freelance artist contract template?

A freelance artist contract template should be tailored to the needs of the client and should be signed by both parties. The contract should be short, easy to read and understand, and have clauses that protect both parties. It should also include a clause that states how much time is needed for the freelancer to deliver work as well as a clause that states how much money will be paid if the work is not delivered on time.
The most important part of a freelance artist contract template is having clauses for intellectual property rights and copyright.

How to make a freelance design contract template

A Freelance design contract template pdf is a document that you can use to outline the terms of your work agreement with your client. It includes the following sections:
- Scope of work: This section defines the project and its scope, as well as any deliverables that you will be responsible for.
- Project timeline: This section outlines how long you expect the project to take, and when it will be completed.
- Payment terms: This section outlines how much you are going to charge for your services, and when payment will be made.
- Work hours: This section outlines how many hours per day or week you are willing to work on this project, as well as any other details about your availability.
- Confidentiality agreements: This section covers what information

Can I use this as a freelance programmer contract template?

There are many different industries that freelancers work in. This template can be used for a variety of industries including programming, as long as the terms are clearly stated in the contract.

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