Contractor agreement template — draft one in minutes
A contractor agreement sets out the work a freelancer or consultant will do and on what terms. FD AI drafts one in a Basic, Standard or Complex version, from Founders Doc's own lawyer-written wording.
- Beta on FD AI
- No card needed
- Word download
In FD AI: Engage a freelancer or consultant in any country; choose the law and the courts in the questions.
What your contractor agreement covers
- Who the contractor isAn individual or a company.
- The workWhat will be delivered, the standard expected, and progress updates when asked.
- ExclusivityFree to work for other clients, or exclusive with your written consent needed for other work.
- Fees and expensesHow the contractor is paid, and whether pre-approved expenses are reimbursed.
- Intellectual propertyFull ownership passes to the company, or the contractor keeps it and grants a licence.
- How long and how it endsUntil the work is done, for a fixed period or until either side ends it, with notice or straight away for serious problems.
- After it endsOptional limits on approaching clients or staff, and on misusing company data.
- Contractor or employee?FD AI flags answers that make the contractor look like an employee, which can bring extra legal duties.
When you need one
- Before a freelancer, consultant or agency starts work
- When a contractor will create something you want to own, such as code, designs or content
- When a contractor will see confidential information
- When you engage someone in another country
How it works
- Answer a few questionsPlain English, one at a time. Skip anything you are unsure of.
- FD AI drafts your contractor agreementFrom Founders Doc's own lawyer-written wording, shaped around your answers.
- Check, edit and downloadChange any wording, ask FD AI to explain a clause, then download it as Word.
Common questions
What is the difference between a contractor and an employee?
A contractor runs their own business and decides how to do the work; an employee works under the company's control. Calling someone a contractor does not settle it — the real arrangement does. FD AI flags answers that point towards employment.
Who owns the work a contractor creates?
It depends on the contract. Without a clear clause, the contractor may keep ownership. FD AI lets you choose a full assignment to the company or a licence.
Basic, Standard or Complex — which do I need?
Basic suits a short, simple job. Standard covers most engagements. Complex adds more detailed terms for larger or riskier work.
Can I edit the agreement after FD AI drafts it?
Yes. Change any wording before you download it as a Word document, and ask FD AI to explain any clause.
Ready to draft your contractor agreement?
Your first 3 documents are free · no card needed. A Founders Doc lawyer is one click away if you want a review.
This page is general information, not legal advice. Every deal is different — for advice on your situation, talk to a Founders Doc lawyer.