{"id":4352,"date":"2025-03-18T10:17:36","date_gmt":"2025-03-18T15:17:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/smallbusiness\/business-contracts-forms\/how-to-write-a-simple-service-agreement.html"},"modified":"2025-03-18T10:26:00","modified_gmt":"2025-03-18T15:26:00","slug":"how-to-write-a-simple-service-agreement","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-contracts-forms\/how-to-write-a-simple-service-agreement.html","title":{"rendered":"How To Write a Simple Service Agreement"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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How To Write a Simple Service Agreement<\/h1>\n\n
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\n By Catherine Hodder, Esq.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Jordan Walker, J.D.<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
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Editorial Note: We earn a commission from affiliate partner links on FindLaw. Commissions do not affect the editorial integrity of our legal content.<\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n \n

\n \n <\/i>\n Legally Reviewed\n <\/summary>\n\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n

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Creating a written service agreement with a service contract template involves identifying the service provider and client, defining the scope of services, setting payment terms, payment schedule, late fees, and payment method, choosing a start and end date, outlining the responsibilities of each party, and adding other provisions about termination, governing law, and dispute resolution.<\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n\n\n

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\n What To Expect in This Article\n <\/h2>\n
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This article explains what a service agreement is, when you should use one, what to include, and a simple-to-follow workflow for creating your own using our free service agreement template.<\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n \n Jump to Free Service Agreement Template<\/span>\n <\/i>\n <\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

What Is a Service Agreement?<\/b><\/p>\n

A simple service agreement, or contract for services, is a type of business contract<\/a> that states the terms and conditions for a service provided between two parties. Service agreements are most often used for consulting services and freelancers. For example, a graphic designer or a web developer for a company will want a contract to specify the work scope and deliverables as well as their compensation, among other things. An independent contractor will want to use a consulting agreement for professional services to define the specific service offered and compensation – whether that be a flat fee or hourly rate.<\/p>\n

Why You Should Use a Service Agreement<\/b><\/h2>\n

A written service agreement protects both parties involved in a service transaction. Defining rights and responsibilities in the agreement promotes a better working relationship because both parties know what to expect and avoid future conflicts. For example, a service agreement may have a specific time frame for completion.<\/p>\n

Additionally, a service agreement protects your business. You can add a non-disclosure or confidentiality clause<\/a> to protect your confidential information. Or an indemnification clause to determine which party will bear the risks if there is a loss, damage, or liability.<\/p>\n

A service agreement helps with conflicts and dispute resolution. You can include an arbitration clause to avoid expensive and lengthy court battles. Finally, a services agreement conveys your professionalism and builds trust with your customers.<\/p>\n

What To Include in a Service Agreement<\/b><\/h2>\n

There are general laws on how to make a contract enforceable<\/a>, such as having legal capacity. States may have their own rules, so follow applicable laws. When creating a services agreement, you should include the following:<\/p>\n