Independent Contractor Agreement

Client: [Client Name] Contractor: [Contractor Name] Effective Date: [Date]

1. Services

Contractor will perform the following services: [Describe scope of work].

2. Payment

Client will pay Contractor [Rate — hourly/fixed/project], due [Payment Terms, e.g. "within 15 days of invoice"].

3. Independent Contractor Status

Contractor is not an employee of Client. Contractor is responsible for their own taxes (no withholding by Client), insurance, equipment, and work schedule. Nothing in this Agreement creates an employment, partnership, or agency relationship.

4. Term and Termination

This Agreement runs from [Start Date] until [End Date / completion of the Services], and may be terminated earlier by either party with [Notice Period] written notice.

5. Intellectual Property

Upon full payment, all work product created specifically for this engagement belongs to Client. Contractor retains rights to any pre-existing tools, code, or materials used to deliver the work.

6. Confidentiality

Contractor will keep Client's confidential information private during and after the engagement.

7. No Exclusivity

Unless stated otherwise, Contractor is free to perform services for other clients during the term of this Agreement.

8. Governing Law

This Agreement is governed by the laws of [State/Country].

Client: ______________________ Date: ____________ Contractor: ______________________ Date: ____________

*This document is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Worker misclassification (treating an employee as a contractor) carries real penalties — confirm the relationship actually qualifies under your state/country's test before using this template.*