A contract is simply an agreement between you and a client about what each side will do. It does not need legal language or a lawyer for everyday freelance jobs. What it needs is to be clear, written down and agreed by both sides before work starts. This lesson is general guidance, not legal advice; for a large or unusual contract, ask someone qualified to check it.
The six parts every agreement should cover
- The work. Exactly what you will deliver. "One logo in three file formats" or "twelve Instagram posts in March, designed and scheduled". Also say what is not included if there could be confusion, such as printing or photography.
- The deadline. When you will deliver, and any dates for drafts. Note what the client must provide and by when, such as photos or text, because your deadline depends on theirs.
- Revisions. How many rounds of changes are included, and how extra changes will be charged.
- The price. The total, the currency, and what it covers.
- Payment dates. How much is paid before you start, at any milestones and on delivery, and by which method.
- Ownership and use of the work. Who owns the finished files and when. A common arrangement is that the client owns the final work once it is fully paid, and you may show it in your portfolio unless the client asks you not to.