Kill fee clause for freelancers
A kill fee clause for writers, designers and creatives: what the client pays if they cancel a project midway. Copyable wording and variants.
Kill fee clause: copy and adapt
If the Client cancels the project after work has begun for reasons other than the Provider's breach, the Client will pay a kill fee equal to [50]% of the total fee, or the value of the work completed to date at the agreed rate, whichever is greater. The deposit counts toward the kill fee. Rights in work that is not fully paid for remain with the Provider.
When to use it
For any project where cancellation mid-way would leave you with days of unpaid work and a hole in your calendar: editorial, design, branding, video.
Variants by trade
Journalists and writers
If the commissioned piece is cancelled after acceptance of the pitch, the Publisher pays [25]% of the agreed fee; if cancelled after delivery of the draft, [50]%.
Staged by phase
Kill fee on cancellation: [25]% before the first concept, [50]% after concepts are delivered, [100]% after final artwork is approved.
Frequently asked questions
What is a typical kill fee?
25–50% of the fee, often scaled by how far the project has progressed.
Is a kill fee the same as a deposit?
No. The deposit is paid up front; the kill fee is owed on cancellation. The deposit is usually credited toward it.
Put this clause in a contract they sign today.
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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.