Freelance Contract Checklist 2026
Before you sign your next freelance contract, run it through these 12 checks. Each one represents a clause that regularly bites independent contractors — and each takes under a minute to verify.
1. Scope of work is specific
Deliverables, formats, and quantities are spelled out. Vague phrases like 'as needed' invite scope creep — push for a numbered list.
2. Revision rounds are capped
Two or three rounds is standard. Unlimited revisions = unpaid work forever. Anything beyond the cap should be billed hourly.
3. Payment milestones tied to deliverables
Avoid 'paid on completion' for projects over two weeks. Demand 30–50% upfront and milestone payments on long jobs.
4. Net 30 or shorter payment terms
Net 60 / Net 90 is a financing arrangement — you're the lender. Negotiate Net 15 or Net 30 with a late fee (1.5%/month is enforceable in most US states).
5. Late fee clause included
Without it you have no leverage. A 1.5% monthly late fee plus collection costs makes slow-paying clients pay first.
6. IP transfers only on full payment
Copyright and deliverables should transfer ONLY after final invoice clears. Until then, you retain ownership — that's your leverage.
7. You keep portfolio rights
Even with a full IP assignment, reserve the right to display the work in your portfolio and case studies. One sentence is enough.
8. Indemnification is mutual
If you indemnify the client, they should indemnify you back. One-way indemnity makes you liable for their misuse of your work.
9. Limitation of liability caps damages
Cap your total liability at the fees paid under the contract (or 1–2x). Without this cap, a single lawsuit can wipe you out.
10. Termination clause works both ways
Either party can terminate with 14–30 days notice. Client pays for all work completed plus a kill fee for early termination.
11. Non-compete is narrow or absent
Refuse industry-wide or perpetual non-competes. Acceptable: 'direct competitors' for 6–12 months in a specific geography.
12. Governing law and venue are reasonable
Disputes in your state, not theirs. Mandatory arbitration in a far-off city is a red flag — it makes suing them too expensive.
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