Independent Contractor Agreement for Software Developer: What to Include (Customizable Template)

Introduction

As a software developer, having a clear Independent Contractor Agreement can make all the difference in how smoothly your projects go. It helps you navigate multi-phase work, approvals, and handoffs effortlessly. Ready to take a big step towards clarity? Customize your Independent Contractor Agreement now.

Legal Terms That Matter

1. IP Ownership

• Make it clear that you maintain IP ownership until all fees are paid. This ensures that your work is protected until the client meets their obligations.
• Include clauses that restrict the client from using your work product to train AI models without your permission. This protects your intellectual property and ensures it’s used respectfully.
• Think about attribution. Specify when and how you would like credit for your work, especially in portfolios or publications.

2. Revision Limits, Acceptance, and Payment Milestones

• Set clear limits on revisions to prevent endless changes. This can be a capped number of rounds for feedback and adjustments.
• Define acceptance criteria so both you and the client know when the work is done. This should be as straightforward as possible!
• Create a simple milestone schedule that aligns with your work phases and payment schedules. This helps in managing expectations and cash flow.

3. Scope Creep and Change Orders

• Include specifics on what constitutes scope creep. This helps to minimize surprises and conflicts over project extensions or additions.
• Define triggers for change orders. If the client requests new features that weren't in the initial plan, outline how that will be handled in terms of pricing and timeline adjustments.

4. Other Helpful Clauses

• Consider adding a limitation of liability clause to protect yourself from unexpected claims. It should outline the extent of your responsibility.
• Including a confidentiality clause is crucial. It ensures that sensitive information shared during the project remains private.

How Counsel Club Helps

Counsel Club re-imagines legal for startups, freelancers, and creative entrepreneurs. Our platform allows you to search for lawyer-drafted forms for startups, freelancers, content creators, and other creative entrepreneurs. Our platform guides you through modifications, both to the contract and the scope of work. Counsel Club has the most sophisticated drafting tool on the market, and it was designed and developed by lawyers. If you want more help, reach out to a Counsel Club lawyer through our Concierge program. Our legal agent, Amicus, was trained on proprietary legal data to be your best legal assistant. Finally, legal for today, that is fast, protective, and cost effective.

Questions to Ask Amicus

• How do I protect my rights in the IP I create?
• What should I include for revisions in my contract?
• How can I effectively manage scope and milestones?

Create Your Agreement

Now is a great time to create your Independent Contractor Agreement and pair it with Statements of Work (SOWs) for your projects. Let’s ensure your work is protected and arrangements are clear. Customize your Independent Contractor Agreement now.