Freelance proposal and simple agreement generator

Describe the project, tick the clauses you want and get a ready-to-edit proposal. It is a plain-language starting point, not legal advice.

Why a written proposal helps both sides

Most freelance disputes come from mismatched expectations: what was included, how many revisions, when payment was due. A one-page proposal that the client signs or approves by email settles those questions before work begins. It also makes you look organised, which helps you close the sale.

The five sections every proposal needs

1. Scope. A concrete list of deliverables. Vague scope is the main cause of unpaid extra work.
2. Timeline. Start and delivery dates, and what you need from the client to hit them.
3. Price and payment terms. Fixed fee or hourly, the deposit, the due date and any late fee.
4. Ownership. Who owns the work and when ownership transfers. Tying it to full payment protects you.
5. Ending the agreement. A short notice period and payment for work done.

Fixed fee versus hourly

A fixed fee rewards efficiency and gives clients certainty, but you carry the risk if the project grows, so scope and revision limits matter. Hourly billing is safer for open-ended work but clients may watch the clock. Many freelancers use a fixed fee for well-defined projects and an hourly or retainer rate for ongoing support.

Independent contractor status

The IRS looks at behavioural control, financial control and the relationship of the parties, not the title in a contract. A clause saying you are a contractor helps, but it only holds if you really control how, when and with what tools you work and can serve several clients.

Limits of this generator

The text is a plain-language template for straightforward projects. It does not cover liability caps, governing law, intellectual property licences or work in regulated fields. For larger contracts, have a lawyer review the final document. Your inputs stay in your browser.

Sources

• IRS: Independent contractor (self-employed) or employee?
• U.S. Small Business Administration: Write your business plan and contracts guidance

Last reviewed 2026-11-09. General information for planning only, not tax, legal or financial advice. Nothing you enter leaves your browser.

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