Common Terms Whether You're Trying to Contract A Copywriter or Work As One

Copywriters and businesses alike who don't have access to this vital information can really get themselves in trouble. Whether you want to be a copywriter or hire one , ignorance of the most common work terms can lead you to sign off on a truly unfortunate contract.

Here are some relatively standard ones I've seen.

1) A contract is required for all jobs. In this contract shall be the exact nature of the assignment or consultation, the agreed upon fees, and the date or dates the work must be given for approval. The contract shall be signed.

2) Copywriting fees for initial projects are payable 50% in advance. The balance is due upon delivery and payable within ten days of delivery. The date that initial payment is received determines the project scheduling.

3) Fees for copy analysis, consulting and conference fees are payable in advance and in full.

4) The client shall pay any expenses incurred because of irregular client requirements. Examples include airfare to a required location, shipping or freight fees above standard due to client request for special shipping and so on.

5) All revisions must be requested within 30 days of receipt of copy and are free of additional charge to the client unless the revision is based on a change in the project goal made after the copy is submitted.

6) Any rewrites or revisions not considered free under the foregoing provision will be billed at the copywriter's current hourly rate.

These six provisions should be in effect when working as or with any copywriter. Copywriting contracts can also include such things as rush fees and project milestone dates when "so much" of the contract should be completed. A "alteration" clause is often also inserted, stating exactly how the contract can be changed if necessary.

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If you have any further questions on contracts for copywriters , feel free to drop me a line, and I'll answer it as quick as I'm able.