Free Templates / Contractor Agreement

    Free Independent Contractor Agreement

    When you hire a freelancer or take on client work, a written agreement keeps everyone aligned on scope, payment, and who owns the work. This free contractor agreement covers the terms that matter for everyday freelance and consulting engagements.

    Download the PDF for free, or send it for electronic signature and have it signed today.

    Download Free PDF

    2-page PDF. Free to download, no signup required.

    What this template covers

    • A clear description of the services and the start date
    • Compensation, invoicing, and payment terms
    • Independent contractor status, so the relationship is not treated as employment
    • Ownership of the work product once payment is made
    • Confidentiality, warranties, a liability cap, and termination on ten days notice

    How to use it

    1. 1Fill in the client, the contractor, the services, and the pay terms.
    2. 2Adjust the work-product and termination clauses if your engagement needs it.
    3. 3Send for signature. Both sides sign electronically and get the final copy.

    Frequently asked questions

    Who owns the work created under this agreement?

    The client owns the deliverables once they have paid in full. The contractor keeps ownership of pre-existing tools and know-how, with the client licensed to use them as embedded in the deliverables.

    Does this make the contractor an employee?

    No. The agreement states the contractor is independent, controls how the work is done, may work for others, and handles their own taxes and insurance. Actual classification also depends on how you work together in practice, so make sure the reality matches the paper.

    Can either side end the engagement early?

    Yes. Either party can terminate with ten days written notice, and the client pays for all work properly performed up to that date. You can change the notice period before sending.

    Is an e-signed contractor agreement enforceable?

    Yes. Electronic signatures are legally valid for service agreements in the U.S. under the ESIGN Act, and SignSimple attaches a tamper-evident audit certificate to every completed document.

    Get it signed in minutes

    Send this contractor agreement for legally binding electronic signature with SignSimple. Every signer gets their own copy, and you get a full audit certificate. Unlimited documents, always free.

    More free templates

    These templates are provided for general informational purposes only and are not legal advice. Laws vary by state; for important or unusual situations, have an attorney review your document.