Fillable PDF
Free fillable service agreement template (PDF)
Last reviewed:
We built this service agreement template for freelancers, consultants and small agencies who need more than a quote but less than a twenty-page contract. It fits on a short document and covers who is doing the work, what exactly the work is, what it costs, when it is paid and how either side can end it.
The general clauses come prefilled and you can change any of them in our Fill PDF form tool. This template is a general example written in plain language, not legal advice. Laws differ between countries and states, so check local rules or ask a lawyer before you rely on it for anything important.
How to fill it in
- Download the fillable PDF or open it in our Fill PDF form tool.
- Enter the start and end dates and both parties' details.
- Describe the services, deliverables and deadlines in the scope block.
- Fill in the fee, payment schedule and payment terms.
- Review the general clauses and adjust them to your situation.
- Both parties sign with Sign PDF; protect the file with a password and share a copy.
Getting the scope right
Most disputes between freelancers and clients are really about scope. Use the scope block to list deliverables, deadlines, the number of revisions and anything the client must provide, such as content or access. If the work is complex, write a separate specification, attach it, and refer to it here: Merge PDF combines the two into one file.
In the payment block, say whether the fee is fixed, hourly or monthly, how it will be invoiced (upfront, by milestone, monthly) and how many days the client has to pay.
What the general clauses cover
Our default clauses are short on purpose and cover the basics:
- The provider works as an independent contractor, not an employee.
- Late payment and changes to the scope.
- Ownership of the work once paid in full.
- Confidentiality, termination with notice, and payment for work already done.
Common mistakes
Leaving the end date empty for a project that should end, forgetting to say who pays expenses, and starting work before the client signs are the three we see most often. Also check that the person signing for the client is allowed to commit the company.
Signing and keeping the agreement
Both parties can sign with Sign PDF. Protect PDF adds a password before you email it, which is sensible when fees and personal details are in the file. Keep the signed agreement for the length of the project and for as long as claims could be made afterwards, which is often several years. Signed-in users can store it in My files, which are stored encrypted.
Frequently asked questions
Is this a legally binding contract?
That depends on local law and on what you write in it. This is a general example, not legal advice. For high-value or unusual work, ask a lawyer to review it.
Can I use it for ongoing monthly work?
Yes. Write the monthly fee in the fee field, "monthly in advance" in the schedule, and leave the end date open or set a renewal date.
What if the client wants extra work?
Our default clauses say changes to the scope must be agreed in writing. Send a short written change or a new quote before you start the extra work.
Can I attach a detailed specification?
Yes. Save it as PDF and combine it with the agreement using Merge PDF, then mention the attachment in the scope block.
Our templates are general examples, not legal or tax advice; check the rules that apply where you live and work.