Force majeure clause for freelancers
A force majeure clause for freelance and event contracts: events outside your control, suspension, and termination.
Force majeure clause: copy and adapt
Neither party is liable for delay or failure to perform caused by events beyond its reasonable control, including natural disasters, epidemics, war, government action, or failure of utilities or networks. The affected party must notify the other promptly. If the event continues for more than [30] days, either party may terminate, and the Client pays for work performed to that date.
When to use it
For every contract, and especially event, travel and date-bound work where you can't just deliver later.
Variants by trade
Events
If the event cannot take place due to force majeure, the parties will first try to reschedule within [12] months; payments made are credited to the new date.
Illness
If the Provider is unable to work due to serious illness, it may arrange a qualified replacement with the Client's approval or refund payments for work not performed.
Frequently asked questions
Does force majeure cancel payment?
Not for work already done. This clause keeps payment for work performed before the event.
Is illness force majeure?
Not usually, which is why event freelancers add a specific illness clause.
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These clauses are general templates, not legal advice. Laws vary by country and state; for high-value or unusual deals, have a lawyer review your contract.