Free Freelance Contract Template (Designer/Developer/Writer)

Updated April 27, 2026 2 min read

TL;DR

This is the contract I use for design, development, and writing work. Four pages, clean language, protects both sides. 50% deposit, net-15 invoicing, IP transfers on payment, two revision rounds, 14-day termination for convenience with full work-in-progress payment, change orders at your rate, portfolio rights reserved.

Customize

Update your rate, deposit percentage, payment terms, and governing state. Everything else is field-tested. For international clients, specify currency (I use USD with fixed exchange rate at signing) and add ICC arbitration clause.

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Frequently asked questions

Does this handle scope creep?

Yes — the change order clause requires signed approval for anything outside original scope, billed separately.

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