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Kill fee calculator
Enter the project fee, how much work is done and the kill fee in your contract. Get the amount owed and a calm, clear email to close the project out.
Cancellation email
Subject: Wrapping up [project name] Hi [Client], Thanks for letting me know about the decision to stop [project name]. I understand, and I'm happy to close things out cleanly. Under the cancellation terms in our agreement, here's the final settlement: - Work completed (40% of $6,000.00): $2,400.00 - Kill fee (25% of the unfinished part): $900.00 - Non-refundable expenses: $0.00 - Total: $3,300.00 - Less payments received: $1,500.00 - Balance due: $1,800.00 I'll send the final invoice today. Once it's settled, I'll hand over all completed work and files so nothing you've paid for is lost. If the project restarts later, I'd be glad to pick it back up. Thanks again for the work together. Best, [Your name]
The kill fee only works if it's in the contract before you start. Clinch includes a cancellation clause and takes the deposit at signature: start from the freelance service agreement template →
You can only charge a kill fee your contract provides for. Without a cancellation clause, you're usually limited to payment for work actually done, which is harder to prove.
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How a kill fee works
A kill fee compensates you when a client cancels a project partway through. You get paid in full for work already done, plus a percentage of the unfinished part to cover the time you reserved and the other work you turned down. It's standard in journalism, design and photography, and it should be written into the contract, together with a deposit that makes it easy to collect.
FAQ
What is a typical kill fee?
25–50% of the fee for the unfinished work, on top of full payment for what's done. Some contracts use a flat percentage of the whole fee instead; both work if they're agreed upfront.
Can I charge a kill fee if it's not in my contract?
You can ask, but it's hard to enforce. Without a clause you're generally entitled to payment for work completed and costs incurred, not a penalty for cancellation.
Does the deposit count towards the kill fee?
Usually yes: deposits are credited against the final amount owed. If your contract makes the deposit non-refundable, it's kept regardless.
Do I have to hand over the work after a cancellation?
Normally the client gets what they've paid for once the final invoice is settled. Your contract should say that ownership transfers only on payment.
Get cancellation terms in writing.
Clinch drafts a contract with a kill fee and deposit with AI, your client signs from their phone, and the deposit is requested at signature.
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