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Free agreement template · Word

Freelancer Agreement

A freelancer agreement is a project-based contract between a business and an independent freelancer such as a designer, writer or developer. It defines the work, milestones, payment, revision rounds and transfer of intellectual property once paid.

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Preview of the agreement

[Highlighted] = fill in
[Company Logo][Company Name]

FREELANCER AGREEMENT

Ref. No.:
[Reference Number]
Date:
[Date]

This Freelancer Agreement is made on [Date] between [Company Name], [Company Address] (the "Client") and [Freelancer Name], [Freelancer Address], PAN [PAN] (the "Freelancer").

1. Services

1.1 The Freelancer will deliver [Project Description] as described in Schedule A.
1.2 The Freelancer decides how and where the work is done, subject to agreed timelines.

2. Milestones and Payment

MilestoneDeliverableDue DateFee (₹)
1[Deliverable 1][DD/MM/YYYY][Amount]
2[Deliverable 2][DD/MM/YYYY][Amount]
3[Final Deliverable and Source Files][DD/MM/YYYY][Amount]

2.1 The Client will pay each milestone within [Payment Days] days of acceptance, less TDS where applicable. GST will be added if the Freelancer is registered.

3. Revisions

Each milestone includes [Revision Rounds] rounds of revisions. Further revisions will be charged at ₹[Amount] per round or as agreed in writing.

4. Intellectual Property

On receipt of full payment, all rights in the deliverables pass to the Client. The Freelancer confirms that the work is original and does not infringe anyone else's rights. The Freelancer may show the work in a portfolio only with the Client's written consent.

5. Confidentiality

The Freelancer shall keep the Client's information, data and unreleased work confidential.

6. Independent Contractor

The Freelancer is not an employee and is responsible for their own taxes, equipment and insurance. No salary, PF, ESI or leave applies.

7. Termination

Either party may end this Agreement with [Notice Days] days' written notice. The Client will pay for accepted work completed up to that date.

8. Governing Law

This Agreement is governed by Indian law, with jurisdiction at [City].

For [Company Name]
[Authorised Signatory]
[Designation]
Freelancer
[Freelancer Name]
Signature: ____________
Date: [Date]

What this template includes

  • Statement of work with deliverables
  • Milestone-based payment schedule
  • Number of revision rounds included
  • IP assignment on full payment
  • Confidentiality and data protection
  • Independent contractor status and tax responsibility

When to use it

  • Commissioning a website, logo, content or video project
  • Hiring a developer on a per-milestone basis
  • Engaging remote freelancers in other cities
  • Short projects that do not justify an employee hire

How to customise this template

  1. 1Fill the milestone table with dates and amounts
  2. 2Set the revision limit and rate for extra revisions
  3. 3Decide whether the freelancer may show the work in a portfolio
  4. 4Attach a brief or statement of work as Schedule A

HR tips

  • Agree acceptance criteria for each milestone
  • Pay on time; late payment damages relationships
  • Ask for source files as part of the final deliverable
  • Keep communication on record by email

This template is a starting point only for an independent contractor engagement. Review it against applicable labour laws (including the Labour Codes in force from 21 November 2025 and the state rules being notified), your Shops & Establishments registration, standing orders and company policies, and take advice from a legal adviser where needed.

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Frequently asked questions

Who owns the work created by a freelancer?+

Without a written assignment, copyright usually stays with the creator. This agreement transfers IP to the client on full payment.

Should TDS be deducted on freelancer payments?+

Depending on the nature of the work and the amount, TDS may apply. Confirm the section and rate with your accountant.

Can a freelancer work for my competitors?+

Generally yes, as they are independent. You can restrict use of your confidential information but should avoid treating them like an exclusive employee.