Rush fee clause for freelancers
A rush fee clause for freelancers: the surcharge for tight deadlines, weekend work and last-minute changes.
Rush fee clause: copy and adapt
Work requested with less than [5] business days' notice, or requiring work outside normal business hours, is charged at [150]% of the standard rate. Rush work is scheduled only after the Client confirms the surcharge in writing.
When to use it
For clients who regularly send 'small urgent tweaks' on Friday evening, and for any project with a compressed timeline.
Variants by trade
Translators and writers
Delivery within 24 hours is charged at [+50]% of the per-word rate; same-day delivery at [+100]%.
Developers on call
Emergency fixes outside business hours are billed at [2x] the hourly rate, with a minimum charge of [2] hours per call-out.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a typical rush fee?
25–100% on top of the standard rate, depending on how much other work it displaces.
Won't a rush fee annoy clients?
It usually makes them plan better. The ones who really need speed are happy to pay for it.
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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.