Independent contractor agreement – free template (US)
A written agreement helps, but what counts is how the work is really done. If the client controls when, where and how the work is done, the person may legally be an employee. Some states, such as California, use a strict test. Wrong classification can lead to back taxes and penalties.
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Independent Contractor Agreement
This agreement is made on October 31, 2026 between Riverside Bakery Inc., 45 River Road, San Marcos, TX 78666 ("Client"), and Maria Gonzalez, 1820 Oak Street, Apt 4, Austin, TX 78701 ("Contractor").
1. Services
Design and build a new website with up to 8 pages, including two rounds of revisions. Work begins on November 7, 2026.
2. Independent contractor status
Contractor is an independent contractor, not an employee. Contractor decides how, when and where to perform the services, uses their own equipment, may work for other clients, and is responsible for their own taxes, insurance and licenses. Contractor is not entitled to employee benefits.
3. Payment
$2,400 fixed fee, 50% at start and 50% on completion. Contractor invoices the Client; invoices are payable within 15 days. Client may report payments to the IRS on Form 1099-NEC where required, and Contractor will provide a Form W-9 on request.
4. Confidentiality
Contractor keeps confidential any non-public information about the Client's business learned while performing the services.
5. Work product
Upon full payment, Contractor assigns to Client all rights, including copyright, in the deliverables created under this agreement. Contractor may show the work in their portfolio unless Client objects in writing.
6. Term and termination
Either party may end this agreement with 14 days' written notice. Client pays for services performed up to the end date.
7. General
This agreement is governed by the laws of the State of Texas. It is the entire agreement between the parties and may be changed only in writing.
Created with Pflichtblatt (pflichtblatt.com). General guidance under the law of the United States and the state you selected, legal position as of October 2026. Not legal advice. Please check that it is up to date and fits your situation.
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Questions
Is this template really free?
Yes. Pflichtblatt is free, has no ads, no sign-up and no tracking. Everything you type stays in your browser; the PDF is created on your device.
What does “Independent contractor” mean?
A contractor decides how and when to do the work and uses their own tools. If you control the work like an employer, the person may legally be an employee. Collect a Form W-9 and report payments to the IRS on Form 1099-NEC.
What does “Ownership of work (IP)” mean?
Without a written agreement, a contractor usually keeps the copyright in what they create, even if you paid for it. A signed assignment clause transfers the rights to the client.
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