Free Freelance Contract Template 

Freelancers and contract workers are often grouped together. They are typically classified as independent contractors under IRS guidelines. They work independently, set their own schedules, and are responsible for their own taxes.

That said, there are slight differences:

• Freelancers usually work with multiple clients on short-term or project-based work.

• Contract workers may work for one client at a time, often for a set period.

Despite these differences, both freelance workers and contract workers can use a freelance contract or an independent contractor agreement to clearly outline contract terms, deadlines, and payment expectations for freelance projects.

You should use a freelance contract anytime you are hired to complete work in exchange for payment. Whether the project is short-term or ongoing, a freelance agreement lays out the terms clearly and helps set the right expectations.

Freelance contracts are essential for anyone running a freelance business or a growing small business that regularly works with independent professionals.

A freelance contract is especially helpful when:

• You’re working on a new project for a client
• You’re providing creative or professional services like writing, design, or consulting
• You want to document project deadlines, deliverables, and payment terms
• You need proof of the agreement in case of non-payment or disputes

Even a basic contract for freelance work can help establish trust between you and your client. It can also reduce risk, especially when working remotely or with a new client.

While verbal agreements can be valid, they are difficult to prove or enforce. To avoid misunderstandings later, it’s best to have your terms in writing. To understand the risks and limitations, read our guide on when verbal contracts are legally binding.

A well-structured contract sets clear expectations and ensures both sides understand their responsibilities. Legal Templates offers a free customizable freelance contract template that includes all the essential sections you can use for your projects.

Here are all the details you should include when creating a freelance contract:

Start With the Basic Information

List the full names and contact information of both the freelancer and the client. Include the project title and the start date of the agreement.

Define the Scope of Work

Clearly describe the services you’ll provide. Be very specific about all the tasks, deliverables, and timelines. This section helps prevent scope creep and keeps expectations aligned.

Set Payment Terms

Mention the payment terms, including details about how much you’ll be paid and when.

Common options include:

• Hourly rates
• Flat or fixed-priced per project fees
• Milestone-based payments

Your contract should also include a clear payment schedule, whether payment is due upfront, upon milestone completion, or at final delivery. You may also include a late fee, preferred payment methods, and invoicing schedules to encourage timely payment and reduce collection issues.

Establish a Timeline

Include the start and end dates and deadlines for each project phase. If you have specific deliverables, include due dates for each. Setting a clear timeline for your project is important to keep both parties accountable.

Include a Revisions Clause

If you want to offer the client revisions, make sure you include the total number of revisions allowed for the project within the freelance contract. Clarify if revisions will be billed separately and at what rate.

Workflow, Automation & Project Management

Some freelance agreements outline the expected workflow for delivering services, including the progression of tasks from draft to approval and final delivery. In tech-enabled projects, this may also include the use of automation tools to speed up revisions, testing, or publishing.

Contracts may also reference supporting files, briefs, and shared docs as part of the official project record.

Outline Ownership and Copyright

Specify who will own the intellectual property rights to the final product. Some clients want full rights to any work you produce while working on their project, while others may only need a license to use it. Include a “work made for hire” clause if the client wants to own the rights to the work (17 US Code § 101).

If you plan to keep ownership and license the work to the client, be clear about how they can use it and whether you’d like to be credited.

Add Confidentiality Language (if needed)

If the project involves confidential information, proprietary information, or internal processes, you can add a basic confidentiality clause or attach a non-disclosure agreement (NDA). This way, any shared information between the parties stays protected.

Specify Dispute Resolution

Clarify how disputes will be handled or resolved through arbitration, mediation, small claims court, or other appropriate courts. Your contract should also specify the governing law and the laws of the state that apply.

Some contracts also include a waiver of certain claims to limit ongoing liability, where legally permitted.

Termination, Indemnification & Legal Safeguards

A strong freelance contract should include a clear termination clause that explains how and when either party can end the agreement. Some contracts require advance written consent or notice before termination takes effect.

Many agreements also contain indemnification provisions, which protect one party from financial losses caused by the other party’s negligence, misconduct, or breach of contract.

Sign and Date

The contract becomes official once both parties sign and date it. If both parties agree to the method, you can sign it physically or electronically.

Use our sample freelance contract to understand how to fill each section with your project details. Complete our questionnaire to generate your freelance contract, then download it as a PDF or Word file.