Contracts Aren’t Just for Big Writing Jobs

Whether it’s $200 or $2,000, every writing job needs a contract. Get my freelance writing contract template, plus optional bonus clauses to protect your time, money, and work.

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You don’t need a $5,000 project to justify a contract. You just need a client, and a clear understanding of what you’re getting paid to do.

Too many writers skip contracts on small gigs and end up chasing invoices or stuck in “just one more thing” territory. A contract isn’t about being difficult. It’s about setting expectations.

It doesn’t have to be fancy. But it does need to exist.

Inside: the exact one-pager I use for small projects, plus a clause bank you can copy, paste, and customize for your next client.

What a Contract Really Does for You

Contracts aren’t just for going to court. That’s the last resort. Most of the time, it’s not even worth the hassle. A solid contract is there to prevent conflict, not fight it after the fact.

Think of it less like legal armor and more like a project map. A good contract:

• Sets expectations early

• Clarifies deadlines and deliverables

• Defines payment terms and timelines

• Prevents awkward “I thought this was included” moments

It keeps you and the client on the same page… literally. It’s a working document that helps you collaborate better, not just cover your butt.

Even for a $200 blog post, a contract sends a message: “This is a professional relationship. Let’s do this right.”

Recommended reading: How to Get Paid More for the Same Work

Watch for Red Flags, and Let Your Contract Handle Them

Some clients will resist signing anything. That’s a red flag.

If they’re sketchy about expectations or flaky on timelines now, imagine what happens without something in writing. A contract makes those issues surface early, before you're deep into the work.

Need help spotting risky clients?

Read: 🚩 Avoiding Red Flags in Freelance Writing

🔒 Full subscribers: Read on for the 10 freelance contract must-haves I use in every agreement and my exact one-page template for small gigs—plus what to do if a client won’t sign.