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Free to use: A plain-English service agreement you can copy, fill in, and send for e-signature before any project starts. It sets scope, price, payment, and cancellation terms so both sides know what was agreed. For anything high-value or complex, have an attorney review it first.
The service agreement template
SERVICE AGREEMENT
This agreement is between [Your Business Name] (“Provider”) and [Client Name] (“Client”), effective [Date].
1. Services. Provider will deliver: [describe the work/deliverables clearly and specifically]. Anything not listed here is out of scope and quoted separately.
2. Timeline. Work begins [date] and is expected to complete by [date], assuming timely Client input and approvals.
3. Fees & payment. Total fee: [$0,000]. Payment schedule: [e.g., 50% deposit to book, 50% on completion]. Invoices are due within [14] days; late payments may incur a [1.5%] monthly fee.
4. Revisions. Includes [2] rounds of revisions. Additional revisions are billed at [$00/hr].
5. Cancellation. Either party may cancel with [7] days’ written notice. The deposit is non-refundable; Client pays for work completed up to the cancellation date.
6. Ownership. Final deliverables transfer to Client upon full payment. Provider may display the work in a portfolio unless Client requests otherwise in writing.
7. Independent contractor. Provider is an independent contractor, responsible for their own taxes and equipment; this is not an employment relationship.
8. Liability. Provider’s total liability is limited to the fees paid under this agreement.
Signatures. Provider: __________ Date: ____ · Client: __________ Date: ____
How to use this template
Fill in every bracketed field, delete or add clauses to fit your work, and — importantly — get it signed before you start. The clearer your Section 1 (scope), the fewer disputes and “can you also just…” requests later. Send it for electronic signature so it is dated, legally binding, and stored automatically.
Get it signed the easy way
Emailing a Word doc back and forth is slow and hard to track. E-signature tools send the contract, collect a legally-valid signature, and archive it — often bundled with invoicing. See our best cheap e-signature software guide (from $8/mo). Client-heavy freelancers may prefer an all-in-one that bundles contracts, proposals, and invoicing — compare HoneyBook vs Bonsai. Solo attorneys should see our legal practice management picks.
Frequently asked questions
Is an electronic signature legally binding?
Yes — in the US, e-signatures are legally binding under the ESIGN Act and UETA when both parties consent, and reputable e-signature tools include an audit trail. For high-stakes contracts, still have an attorney review the terms.
Do I need a lawyer to use a contract template?
A template is a solid starting point for routine, lower-risk work, but it is not legal advice. For high-value, complex, or industry-regulated work, have an attorney review or customize it for your situation and state.
What is the most important clause?
Scope of work (Section 1). Most disputes come from unclear expectations, so define exactly what is included — and note that anything else is quoted separately. Clear scope protects both you and the client.