Referral definition
A precise description of what qualifies as a referral, including timing, territory, customer type, and any exclusions to prevent inconsistent interpretations.
A clear Referral Commission Agreement reduces disputes, ensures consistent accounting, and allocates tax and reporting responsibilities between parties. It protects both referrer and recipient by defining triggers, timing, and remedies.
The agreement suits any situation where one party expects a monetary payment triggered by a successful referral and wants predictable, documented terms.
An individual or entity that identifies and delivers potential customers. Usually responsible for complying with any licensing rules and providing accurate payee information for tax reporting.
The business that receives referrals and pays commissions. Responsible for verifying qualifying criteria, issuing payments, and completing any required information returns such as Form 1099-NEC.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Signer Order | Referrer then recipient |
| Authentication | Email confirmation or SMS code |
| Notification | Auto-notify accounting on completion |
| Storage | Save PDF with audit trail |
Ensure access controls, audit logging, and routine backups are enabled so executed agreements remain secure and discoverable.
A precise description of what qualifies as a referral, including timing, territory, customer type, and any exclusions to prevent inconsistent interpretations.
Exact formula for commission (percentage or flat fee), payment basis (gross revenue, net revenue), and how refunds or discounts affect the calculation.
Timing and method of payment (e.g., net 30 after invoice), withholding obligations, and handling of chargebacks or adjustments.
Agreement duration, renewal terms, and termination rights including effect on pending referrals and surviving payment obligations.
Nondisclosure obligations for client lists and referral details, plus permitted disclosures for tax and compliance purposes.
Designated state law and dispute resolution method (arbitration or courts), which affects enforceability and remedies.
Specify who issues information returns (e.g., Form 1099-NEC), who provides W‑9 data, and responsibility for backup withholding if TIN is missing.
Clarify whether referral rights are assignable, and set conditions for permitted transfers to protect ongoing payment streams.
Allow limited inspection or documentation sharing to verify referral validity while protecting business confidentiality.
Require written amendments signed by both parties to avoid oral modifications that lead to disputes.
Agree on commission formula and qualifying referrals before any introductions
Both parties sign and exchange fully executed copies
Document referral details and date in the recipient’s CRM
Issue commission according to the stated payment schedule
W-9 should be completed by referrer before first payment; no fixed IRS filing deadline
Form 1099-NEC must be issued to recipients and filed with the IRS by January 31
April 15 is the normal individual filing deadline (Form 1040)
Retain I-9 for three years after hire or one year after termination, whichever is later
Keep executed agreements for at least three years after final payment or termination
A broker refers a buyer to a brokerage with a 25% commission of the brokerage fee
An affiliate introduces a qualified lead to a SaaS vendor for a flat $500 commission
| Criteria | Electronic | Handwritten |
|---|---|---|
| Legal validity | yes under esign/ueta | yes under contract law |
| Audit evidence | comprehensive audit trail | witnessed or notarized only |
| Remote notarization | possible where ron allowed | in-person only |
| Storage | digital archival acceptable | retain original recommended |
| 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 | No free trial | No free trial | Yes, limited trial | Yes, limited trial |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |