Terms and Conditions to Include in A Freelance Design Contract

A contract can save you from so many upsetting future conflicts with your clients. If you are just starting out, feel free to include the following in your contract!

As a freelance designer, I usually attach my contract with my invoice or quotation. Even if they don't ask for it, I make it a must that they receive the black and white of my services before starting.

1. Deposits before working

50% deposit or more before even starting work. No deposit, no work. Deposits are non-refundable even if clients are not happy with the product. Time spent working is still considered work done and the wages are yours.

2. Minimum time delivery

Manage client expectations by agreeing on a suitable time to deliver finished work or first draft.

3. The rights to post work as a portfolio

Make sure everyone is clear if everything is P&C and who owns the Intellectual Property of the designs.

Design clients can take expensive legal actions if designs are used for other purposes without permission and agreement.

4. Period of contract

Make sure you are both aware and discuss the working commitment and period of the working relationship. State everything in black and white no matter what.

5. Extra charges for urgent services

Special services require special compensation. Make sure clients are aware of this by jotting it down.

6. Amendment limits

Mention how many times you can offer amendments so clients can be more decisive. More amendments mean more time consumed, which also means more expenses.

7. What kind of files will be given

As designers, will you give them working files(PSD, Ai, Canva link, etc.) or only screen view files(JPG or PNG)? Make sure these are discussed. Working files are intellectual property and have value.

8. Working Hours

Make sure you both discussed matching working hours and agreed to respect off days. More working hours means extra compensation.

9. Job scopes

Write down every job descriptions you will do for them, and be clear that you only do what you offer. Any more services than discussed will be compensated fairly.

10. Cancellation Terms

For example, mention that the contract will be terminated if the client failed to proceed with any sort of payment on time. Or if you, as the freelancer failed to deliver, then the contract will automatically be canceled.

Sample Contract

Bottom Line

A contract saved me from being bullied or abused. Every time clients demand more than they should bite, I remind them of what we agreed on months ago. Black & white is key for a harmonious business experience! Another fellow designer saved herself from very expensive legal actions because she posted her works online as a portfolio. The lawyer in the suing company was ready to sue her until she showed proof in her contract that she could in fact display it in her portfolio and own it as her Intellectual Property as well. Better safe than regret!