Freelance Developer Contract Template

INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR SERVICES AGREEMENT

Document ID: TR-[DEV-2026]
Effective Date: [//2026]

INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE

• Completion: The Hiring Entity shall complete the Scope of Work (Schedule A) and Compensation sections. Both parties must initial each page and sign the final signature block.
• Filing/Retention: Both parties shall retain a fully executed digital or physical copy in a secure, encrypted repository for a minimum of seven (7) years following contract expiration for audit and tax compliance.
• Mandatory Attachments: Ensure a detailed "Schedule A: Scope of Work & Deliverables" and "Schedule B: Intellectual Property Assignment" are attached to this base agreement.

1. PARTIES

This Agreement is entered into by and between: Hiring Entity: [] ("Company") Contractor: [] ("Contractor")

2. SERVICES & PERFORMANCE

Contractor agrees to perform the services described in Schedule A ("Services"). Contractor shall perform all work with the standard of care, skill, and diligence expected of a professional software developer.

Project Milestones:

1. [__________] Due: [/__/2026]
2. [__________] Due: [/__/2026]
3. [__________] Due: [/__/2026]

3. COMPENSATION & TAXES

• Fee Structure: [ ] Hourly Rate $[] / [ ] Fixed Project Fee $[]
• Payment Terms: Net [____] days upon receipt of invoice.
• Tax Status: Contractor is an independent contractor. Contractor is solely responsible for all federal, state, and local income taxes, self-employment taxes, and any other withholdings.

4. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY (IP)

• Work for Hire: All software, code, documentation, and work product developed under this Agreement are deemed "work made for hire" for the Company.
• Assignment: To the extent any work does not qualify as work made for hire, Contractor hereby irrevocably assigns all rights, title, and interest worldwide to the Company.

5. CONFIDENTIALITY

Contractor shall maintain the strict confidentiality of Company trade secrets, proprietary algorithms, and sensitive business data. This obligation survives termination of this Agreement for a period of [____] years.

6. TERM & TERMINATION

• Term: This Agreement commences on [//2026] and continues until [//2026] or completion of services.
• Termination for Convenience: Either party may terminate with [____] days' written notice.
• Termination for Cause: Company may terminate immediately for material breach or failure to perform.

7. GOVERNING LAW

This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of []. Any disputes shall be resolved in the courts of [] County.

EXECUTION

FOR COMPANY:
Authorized Signature: __________________________
Printed Name: []
Title: []
Date: [//2026]

FOR CONTRACTOR:
Authorized Signature: __________________________
Printed Name: []
Title: []
Date: [//2026]

Disclaimer: This document is provided as a standardized framework. Consult qualified legal counsel for jurisdiction-specific statutory compliance.