Does someone have a sample software consulting proposal and/or contract?

Question

In the past, I've always done independent contracting work for people and they pay me via a 1099. Never really a formal contract or proposal, etc...

I now have a software consulting company and will be invoicing customers under that name. I'd like to begin doing more formal proposals and contracts based on the work I'm given.

I've been burned in the past but it's never been for much money, but now I'm starting to do some pretty big jobs for start-ups (high risk) and I feel that I need to enter into legally binding contracts with companies that use our services.

Do you have any sample proposals and/or contracts that I can use as a start? I've googled extensively, but can't find anything good...

Also, what is the industry standard "retainer" or "upfront" payment that I should ask for? I've always done 25%, then monthly billing based on actuals...

Answer 1

talk to a lawyer in your state/province; don't just use something off the internet as your state and local laws may vary

in general, there's time-and-materials, billed periodically, and there's bid-for-component work; you can ask for whatever payment terms you desire, and negotiate from there

Answer 2

Large companies you may work for will put the contract on their paper making your effort less rewarding.