Work for hire clause for freelancers
A work-made-for-hire clause with a backup assignment and payment condition, and when freelancers should push back on it.
Work for hire clause: copy and adapt
To the extent permitted by law, the deliverables are works made for hire for the Client. To the extent they are not, and subject to receipt of full payment, the Provider assigns to the Client all rights in the deliverables. The Provider's pre-existing materials and general know-how are excluded and licensed to the Client as needed to use the deliverables.
When to use it
When a client insists on work-for-hire language. Keep the payment condition and the carve-out for pre-existing materials.
Variants by trade
Priced accordingly
The Client acknowledges that the fee includes a premium of [25]% for the assignment of all rights.
Content writers
Articles are work made for hire; the Provider may be credited as author where the Client publishes bylines.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'work for hire' mean for a freelancer?
The client is treated as the author from the start. In the US it only applies to certain types of work, which is why contracts add a backup assignment.
Should I charge more for work for hire?
Often yes: you give up future licensing and reuse, so price the rights in.
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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.