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Freelance & Services

Freelance Contract Template Generator — AI Freelance Agreement

Get paid and keep your work protected.

A freelance contract (or independent contractor agreement) sets out the work, the price, the deadlines, and who owns the result. Lexly generates a complete freelance agreement in about 60 seconds — covering the clauses freelancers most often get burned by, like IP ownership and payment terms — ready to send for legally binding e-signature.

What it is

A freelance agreement is a contract between an independent contractor and a client. Unlike an employment contract, it confirms the freelancer is self-employed, defines deliverables and milestones, sets payment terms, and — critically — specifies who owns the finished work and what happens if the project changes or ends early.

When to use it

  • Starting any paid project with a new client
  • Taking on a retainer or ongoing scope of work
  • Subcontracting part of a project to another freelancer
  • Any engagement where IP ownership or payment timing could be disputed

Key clauses to include

Scope of work

Defines deliverables, milestones, and what is explicitly out of scope — your best defense against scope creep.

Payment terms

Sets the fee, schedule, deposit, late-payment interest, and currency, so getting paid isn't left to goodwill.

Intellectual property

States whether IP transfers on full payment or stays with you — the clause that decides who owns the final files.

Revisions & change requests

Caps included revisions and prices extra work, preventing unpaid rounds of changes.

Termination & kill fee

Explains how either side can end the project and what is owed for work already done.

Frequently asked questions

What should be in a freelance contract?
At a minimum: scope of work, payment terms, intellectual property ownership, revision limits, a termination clause, and confidentiality. Lexly's freelance agreement includes all of these and tailors the governing law to your jurisdiction.
Who owns the work in a freelance contract?
It depends on the IP clause. By default, a freelancer often retains ownership until full payment, after which rights transfer to the client. Lexly lets you choose — and makes the choice explicit so it can't be disputed later.
Do freelancers need a written contract for small gigs?
Yes — most contract disputes happen on the 'small' jobs where nothing was written down. A short written agreement is fast with Lexly and protects you from unpaid invoices and ownership fights.
Is a freelance contract the same as an employment contract?
No. A freelance (independent contractor) agreement confirms self-employment, which has different tax and liability implications than employment. Using the wrong one can create legal and tax problems.

Generate your freelance agreement in 60 seconds

Describe your deal in plain English and Lexly drafts a complete, jurisdiction-aware contract — ready to edit and sign. Free to start.

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Lexly is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. AI-generated contracts are not a substitute for legal advice. For complex, high-value, or unusual agreements, consult a qualified attorney.