Service Agreements & Contracts

Free Service Agreement Template (PDF)

A service agreement is a short, plain-language contract covering one well-defined service between a client and a provider — what's being done, what it costs, and the basic terms that protect both sides.

When to use it

Use this for a simple, single-scope engagement where a full multi-page contract would be overkill — a one-time project, a small job, or any situation where both sides just need the essentials in writing: scope, price, and term.

What's typically included

• Services description
• Fee and payment
• Term
• Independent contractor status
• Limitation of liability
• Governing law
• Signature blocks

How to fill it in

• This template is deliberately kept to one page — describe the service in one or two clear sentences rather than trying to fit in every possible clause.
• Fill in the fee and payment terms as actual numbers and actual timing ("net 15," "on completion") rather than leaving them general.
• If the engagement might grow beyond one well-defined task, consider the longer freelance/consulting agreement template instead — this one is built to stay short.

This template is a general starting point, not legal advice — customize it and have it reviewed for your situation.

Frequently asked questions

Is a one-page contract really enough for a paid engagement?

For a simple, well-defined service, yes — the essentials (scope, price, term, liability) are what actually matter legally, and a longer document doesn't add protection it doesn't also state. For more complex work, use the freelance/consulting agreement template instead.

Is an electronically signed service agreement legally binding?

Yes, under the U.S. ESIGN Act and state UETA laws, an electronic signature carries the same legal weight as one on paper.

Do I need a lawyer to review this?

This template covers standard terms for a simple engagement, but it's a general starting point, not legal advice — for anything beyond a small, straightforward job, a lawyer's review is worth considering.