Whether you’re just starting out or already juggling multiple projects, having a solid freelance contract isn’t just smart — it’s essential.
Think of it as your insurance policy against:
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Late payments
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Vague expectations
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Ghosting
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Scope creep (you know, when a “small edit” turns into a second project…)
To help, we’ve created a ready-to-use freelance contract template — and this guide will show you exactly which sections matter most and how to adapt them to your needs.
📄 👉 Download the template (PDF)
🔑 The Must-Have Clauses in Your Freelance Contract
Here’s what to include — with a plain-English explanation of why it matters.
1. Scope of Work
Why it matters: This sets the boundaries of what you’re agreeing to do.
Be specific: What are you delivering? How many rounds of revisions? What formats? By when?
✏️ Example:
“Freelancer will deliver 3 blog posts (800–1,000 words each), including one round of edits per post.”
2. Payment Terms
Why it matters: No more chasing invoices or “we thought it was net-60.”
✅ Include:
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Your rate (hourly, daily, or per project)
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Invoice frequency (monthly, milestone-based, etc.)
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Payment deadline (e.g. within 14 days of invoice)
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Late fee clause (if you charge one)
✏️ Example:
“Invoices will be issued monthly and are payable within 14 calendar days. A 5% late fee applies after 30 days.”
3. Timeline and Deadlines
Why it matters: Keeps expectations aligned.
✅ Include:
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Start and end dates
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Delivery milestones
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Client responsibilities (e.g. providing access, approvals)
✏️ Tip: Add a clause stating that delays from the client may delay your timeline too.
4. Revisions
Why it matters: Protects you from endless edits.
✏️ Example:
“Freelancer will provide one round of revisions per deliverable. Additional changes will be billed at [hourly rate].”
5. Termination Clause
Why it matters: If either side wants out, it’s clear how to do it fairly.
✅ Include:
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How to cancel (email? written notice?)
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Notice period (e.g. 2 weeks)
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What happens with unpaid work or partial delivery
6. Ownership and Rights
Why it matters: So you both know who owns the work and when.
✏️ Example:
“The client gains full rights to the final deliverables upon full payment. Freelancer retains the right to showcase the work in their portfolio.”
7. Confidentiality
Why it matters: Builds trust — especially with agencies or startups.
✏️ Include a simple NDA clause:
“Freelancer agrees not to disclose or reuse any confidential information shared during the project.”
8. Liability and Legal Compliance (EU Tip)
✅ If you’re working across EU borders, you’re likely protected by standard commercial law, but it’s still smart to include:
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GDPR mention if you’re handling data
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Indemnity clause protecting both parties from legal claims
The 9am.works contract template is already aligned with EU best practices — especially for freelancers working in Germany and neighboring countries.
🔐 Pro Tip: Always Keep a Copy & Signed Version
You don’t need expensive software — a signed PDF or email confirmation works fine. Tools like DocuSign, Dropbox Sign (formerly HelloSign), or even just a typed-out email agreement will hold up in most cases.
📄 Ready to use?
Download our free template and customize it for your next gig:
👉 Download: Freelance Contract Template (PDF)
(Includes scope, payment, IP, termination, and GDPR-ready clauses)
Freelancing without a contract is like skydiving without a parachute.
It’s fine — until it’s not.
Set clear expectations from the start and focus on what you do best: your work.
Want to go even further?
If you’re serious about turning freelance applications into consistent gigs, don’t stop here.
🎓 Check out our Freelancer Academy — your all-in-one course to launch and grow your freelance career.
With 40+ lessons, 100+ videos, templates, checklists, expert interviews, and a like-minded community, it’s everything you need to go from zero to clients — faster and smarter.
👉 Join the Freelancer Academy now
