Resource · Contracts
How to Write a Contractor Agreement for Your New Hire
A practical checklist of what to include — plus a free template to get you started.
Once you've selected a candidate, the contract between your business and the contractor is the foundation of the working relationship — it's between you and the contractor directly, not something UpHiire is a party to. Here are the key elements most contractor agreements should cover, and a free sample template to help you get started.
Key clauses to include
Scope of work
Role title, responsibilities, and expected deliverables, described as specifically as possible. Vague scope is one of the most common sources of later disputes.
Independent contractor status
Clear language confirming the contractor is not an employee, and is responsible for their own taxes and benefits. See our Contractor vs. Employee guide for more on why this matters.
Compensation & payment terms
Amount, currency, payment method, and schedule. See our guide on paying international contractors for the mechanics.
Confidentiality
Protects your business information and any client or proprietary data the contractor will access.
Intellectual property / work product
Clarifies who owns the work produced (typically the client, if stated explicitly).
Equipment & tools
Who provides what, and whether the contractor is reimbursed for anything required.
Termination
How either party can end the agreement, and with how much notice.
Governing law & dispute resolution
Which jurisdiction's law applies — worth confirming with an attorney given the cross-border nature of the relationship.
Get the free template
We put together a sample contractor agreement template covering all of the sections above, so you're not starting from a blank page.
Download Free Template (.docx)Important — please read
This template is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. It is not legal advice, and it is not a substitute for review by a qualified attorney familiar with your jurisdiction and the contractor's jurisdiction. UpHiire is not a party to any agreement you enter into with a contractor, and is not responsible for the completeness, accuracy, or legal sufficiency of this template, or for any clause, protection, or requirement it does not include. You are solely responsible for reviewing, customizing, and — where appropriate — having this document reviewed by your own legal counsel before using it.
Frequently asked questions
Is UpHiire a party to the contract between me and my contractor?
No — the contractor agreement is between you and the contractor directly. UpHiire's role is sourcing and vetting candidates; our own agreement with you covers the placement service itself.
Is the free template legally binding as-is?
It's a starting point, not a finished legal document. We strongly recommend having it reviewed and customized by a qualified attorney before use.
What if I forget to include something important in my contract?
This is exactly why we recommend legal review — UpHiire isn't responsible for gaps in the template, since every business's situation and risk tolerance is different.
Do I need a separate contract for each contractor I hire?
Yes — each engagement should have its own signed agreement reflecting that specific role, compensation, and terms.
Need help figuring out the details?
Tell us what you need and we'll point you in the right direction.