Why it matters
Most fights with freelancers start with different ideas of what was included. A clear scope lists the work, the turnaround and the revision rounds, so extra work becomes a paid request instead of an argument.
California’s freelance law requires the scope and deliverables in writing for jobs of $250 or more, and New York and Illinois have similar rules above $800 and $500.
How it usually reads
Contractor will provide the services described in Exhibit A, with a turnaround of [TURNAROUND_DAYS] business days per deliverable.
What fair looks like
- A list of tasks and deliverables, or a monthly package.
- A turnaround time per task.
- A set number of revision rounds.
- A rate for work outside the scope.
Red flags
-
and any other tasks as needed
Open-ended scope with no extra pay.
Common questions
What if I need extra work?
Ask for it in writing and agree on the rate first. The clause sets an hourly or per-task rate for that.