Scope of Work
Describe services, milestones, deliverables, acceptance criteria, and any attachments or exhibits that form part of the contract.
A clear contract reduces misunderstandings about scope, payment, and liability, supports tax and compliance determinations, and documents consent and expectations for both parties in enforceable terms under ESIGN (15 U.S.C. ch. 96) and applicable state law.
Common signers include hiring organizations, independent contractors, subcontractors, and project managers who need written proof of agreed labor terms.
Each party should confirm roles and authority before execution to avoid later disputes.
Describe services, milestones, deliverables, acceptance criteria, and any attachments or exhibits that form part of the contract.
Specify rates, billing intervals, invoicing details, late fees, and accepted payment methods, including whether retainers or progress payments apply.
State worker classification, tax responsibility, absence of benefits, and that contractor supplies tools unless otherwise agreed.
Require appropriate insurance coverage and define indemnification obligations for negligence, third-party claims, and IP infringement.
Protect business information with clear confidentiality definitions, permitted disclosures, and duration of obligations after termination.
Detail termination for convenience or cause, notice periods, final accounting, and return of property or materials.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Authentication | Email link with optional SMS code or KBA for higher assurance |
| Signature Type | Enable drawn or click-to-sign with timestamped audit trail |
| Template | Save reusable contract template with locked clauses |
| Integrations | Connect to CRM, document storage, or accounting systems |
Confirm format, authentication, and storage options before sending the contract for signature.
Ensure signer access (device and network) and retain the platform audit trail for evidentiary purposes.
Defines when obligations begin and end
Date by which contractor starts work
When invoices are due and payment terms
Example: NET 30 from invoice date
1099-NEC due to recipient and IRS by Jan 31
Finalize draft with business and legal stakeholders
Collect all required signatures and dates
Deliverables accepted per contract criteria
Issue final invoice and reconcile accounts
A homeowner hires a subcontractor for repairs
A startup retains a contractor for ongoing development
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day free trial | Varies | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Envelope Cap | No envelope cap | 100 envelopes/user/year | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |