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5 sections · practical checks · ~8 min read

Freelance agreement review

What to look for in client SOWs and master agreements before you start billable work.

Start with scope and acceptance

Deliverables should be listed with format, deadline, and what counts as done. If acceptance is subjective, tie payment to milestones or define a short review window after delivery.

Payment and cash flow

Note currency, invoice timing, and Net terms. Deposits or stage payments help on longer jobs. Check whether you can pause work when invoices are overdue.

Ownership and reuse

See when the client gets rights to your output and whether you keep pre-existing tools, templates, and portfolio rights. Work-for-hire wording needs a careful read.

Changes and extra work

Find how change requests are handled. Unlimited revisions or vague scope often leads to unpaid hours. A written change process protects both sides.

Ending the engagement

Read notice periods, kill fees, and what you are paid for work already completed if the client cancels early.

Related topics

General information only. Not legal advice.

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