Retainer clause for freelancers
A monthly retainer clause: fee in advance, included hours, rollover of unused hours, overage rate and notice period.
Retainer clause: copy and adapt
The Client pays a monthly retainer of [amount], invoiced in advance on the first day of each month, which reserves up to [20] hours of the Provider's time that month. Unused hours expire at month end. Additional hours are billed at [rate] per hour with the Client's prior approval. After a minimum term of [3] months, either party may end the retainer with [30] days' written notice.
When to use it
For ongoing work, such as maintenance, content, marketing or advisory, where the client needs you available every month.
Variants by trade
Rollover allowed
Up to [5] unused hours roll over to the following month only, then expire.
Advisory / availability retainer
The retainer secures the Provider's availability for advice by email and calls of up to [2] hours per week; project work is quoted separately.
Frequently asked questions
Is a retainer paid in advance?
Yes. Billing in arrears removes most of the security a retainer is supposed to give you.
What happens to unused retainer hours?
Whatever the contract says. Expiring or one-month rollover is standard; unlimited rollover turns the retainer into prepaid hours.
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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.