Freelance Software Developer Contract Template

SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT SERVICES AGREEMENT

Document ID: TR-SD-8829
Effective Date: [____/____/2026]

Instructions for Use

• Completion: Both the Client (Company) and the Developer (Freelancer) must complete all bracketed fields. Review the "Scope of Services" appendix thoroughly before signing.
• Filing/Retention: Both parties must retain a digital or physical copy of the fully executed agreement for a minimum of seven (7) years to satisfy standard tax and audit requirements.
• Mandatory Attachments: Ensure the following are attached as Exhibits: (A) Detailed Scope of Work (SOW), (B) Payment Schedule/Milestones, and (C) Intellectual Property Assignment Agreement.

1. PARTIES

This Agreement is entered into between: Client: [____________] (“Client”), located at [____________]. Developer: [____________] (“Developer”), located at [____________].

2. SERVICES

Developer agrees to perform the following services (the “Services”):

• Description of technical stack: [____________]
• Primary project goal: [____________]
• Reference to SOW (Exhibit A): [ ] Attached

3. COMPENSATION & PAYMENT TERMS

• Fee Structure: [ ] Hourly Rate [ ] Fixed Project Fee
• Amount: [____________] USD
• Payment Terms: Net [__________] days from receipt of undisputed invoice.
• Late Payment Penalty: [__________]% per month on overdue balances.

4. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY & OWNERSHIP

All software, code, documentation, and inventions (“Work Product”) created by the Developer in the course of this Agreement shall be deemed “work made for hire” and the sole property of the Client upon full payment of fees. Developer hereby assigns all rights, titles, and interests to the Client.

5. CONFIDENTIALITY

Developer agrees to hold all proprietary information, trade secrets, and non-public technical data of the Client in strict confidence. This obligation survives the termination of this Agreement for a period of [__________] years.

6. TERM & TERMINATION

• Term: This Agreement commences on the Effective Date and continues until [____________] or project completion.
• Termination for Convenience: Either party may terminate this Agreement with [__________] days written notice.
• Termination for Cause: Client may terminate immediately upon Developer's material breach.

7. INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR STATUS

Developer is an independent contractor, not an employee. Developer is responsible for all federal, state, and local taxes, insurance, and professional liabilities.

8. GOVERNING LAW

This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State/Province of [____________].

EXECUTION & SIGNATURES

Client Authorized Signature: __________________________
Printed Name: [____________]
Title: [____________]
Date: [____/____/2026]

Developer Signature: __________________________
Printed Name: [____________]
Title: [____________]
Date: [____/____/2026]

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