Contract Tips for Freelancers

As a freelancer, no one expects you to be well-versed in the legal aspects of your business. Between putting so much time and effort into your work and relationship with your clients, there’s little time to think about anything else. However, it’s in your best interest to have some legal protection set in place in case any mishaps occur. This is especially true for larger projects where milestone deliveries, multiple payments, etc., are required.

 

Contracts are a freelancer’s best friend. Every term and condition you have for producing work for clients should be clearly stated in writing to protect both parties. Let’s take a look at two contracts that will keep your business prospering.

Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs)

An NDA contract is a legally binding agreement that prevents one or both parties from disclosing confidential information. Clients are more likely to present an NDA, especially if they are high-profile or simply wish to keep certain information confidential. However, you and your client can sign a mutual NDA if both of you have information you wish to keep confidential.

A mutual NDA is the best way to ensure both you and your client are protected from privacy breaches. If the NDA is breached, you may be entitled to monetary compensation.

Standard Terms and Conditions Contracts

Although contracts can be oral, a written agreement signed by both parties that states everything about the project to be done is the best way to make sure the project goes smoothly and successfully. A contract doesn’t guarantee that issues between you and your client won’t occur, but it will serve as a reference/evidence in case any disputes arise.

Here’s what your contract should include:

·         Scope of the project – Detailed information about what kind of work will be performed.

·         Timeframe and Deadlines – Make it clear if the project is a one-time thing or a part of a long-term relationship and how long the relationship will last. Include deadlines for both parties, including dates by which you will need any information from the client for the project and when you will deliver drafts/finished product. You don’t want to wait a month before the client delivers everything you need to get started on the project.

·         Payment Terms – Any details concerning money, including your hourly or flat rate fees, when payments are due, which forms of payment are accepted, late fees, etc.

·         Deliverables – How you will deliver your finished work. As a Microsoft Word document, PNG files, PDFs, etc.

·         Additions and Revisions ­– How many revisions will you provide to your client? Will you allow any additions to their order and if so, how will you charge them?

·         Cancellation – What will happen if either party decides to end the relationship before the work is delivered? Will there be cancellation fees or other payment terms? Who receives ownership of the work?

·         Copyright and Ownership – You assume copyright ownership over your creative work as soon as it’s created. However, most of the time, clients will want complete ownership over the work once it’s delivered. If you require them to credit you or you want to be allowed to use the work in your portfolio, clearly state so.

·         Agreements and Signature – Give your client enough time to read through, sign the contract, and ask for amendments. The contract is useless without both signatures.

Want more tips on freelancing? Check out our blog. How to price your freelance jobs