What to Look For Before Signing a Freelance Contract

As a freelancer, contracts protect your income and your rights. Use this checklist before signing any client agreement.

Payment Terms Checklist

• ☐ Rate and payment structure (hourly, project, retainer) clearly stated
• ☐ Payment schedule and milestones defined
• ☐ Deposit requirement (25-50% upfront recommended)
• ☐ Payment terms (Net 15 or Net 30 preferred)
• ☐ Late payment penalties included
• ☐ Kill fee for cancelled projects
• ☐ Expense reimbursement terms

Scope of Work Checklist

• ☐ Deliverables specifically described
• ☐ Revision limits specified (e.g., "2 rounds included")
• ☐ Timeline and deadlines realistic
• ☐ Change order process for scope changes
• ☐ Client responsibilities (materials, feedback timing)
• ☐ What's NOT included is clear

Intellectual Property Checklist

• ☐ IP transfers upon final payment (not before)
• ☐ Portfolio rights retained
• ☐ Pre-existing IP carved out
• ☐ Source files delivery terms clear
• ☐ Tools and methods remain yours

Liability Checklist

• ☐ Liability cap at contract value
• ☐ Indemnification is mutual (or absent)
• ☐ No guarantee of results beyond deliverables
• ☐ Client responsible for content accuracy

Termination Checklist

• ☐ Both parties can terminate with notice
• ☐ Payment for completed work on termination
• ☐ IP ownership on termination is clear

Red Flags to Avoid

• ☐ NOT present: Non-compete clauses
• ☐ NOT present: Unlimited revisions
• ☐ NOT present: Payment "upon satisfaction"
• ☐ NOT present: IP transfer before payment