Freelance Proposal Template
Create professional proposals as a freelancer - with our free template in 15 minutes instead of 4 hours.
Why do freelancers need professional proposals?
As a freelancer, your proposal is often the first impression a potential client gets of you. A professional proposal signals competence, builds trust, and increases your closing rate. It also protects you legally and avoids misunderstandings about the scope of work.
What belongs in a freelance proposal?
- Your complete contact details (name, address, tax ID)
- Client details and contact person
- Project description and objectives
- Detailed scope of services
- Timeline and milestones
- Pricing (hourly or fixed) and payment terms
- Proposal validity period
- Terms and conditions
Hourly rate or fixed price?
The choice between hourly and fixed pricing depends on the project. Hourly rates work well for projects with unclear scope or ongoing support. Fixed prices are better for clearly defined projects - they give the client planning security and reward your efficiency.
Common mistakes in freelance proposals
- Unclear service description leads to scope creep
- No revision limits specified
- Missing payment terms (deposit, due dates)
- No validity period stated
- Forgetting required legal information
Why SimpleProposals for Freelancers?
15 min instead of 4 hours
Ready-made templates for typical freelance projects
Professional appearance
Your proposals look like they came from an agency
Legally compliant
All required information automatically included
Reusable
Create building blocks once, use them again and again
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to include my tax ID in the proposal?
Yes, as a freelancer or self-employed person, you should include your tax identification number. This varies by country, so check your local requirements.
How binding is a freelance proposal?
A proposal is generally binding once the client accepts it. You can limit this by specifying a validity period (e.g., 14 days) or adding "Subject to confirmation".
Should I ask for deposits?
Yes, especially for new clients or larger projects. 30-50% deposit on order confirmation is common. This reduces your risk and shows the client is serious.
How do I handle change requests?
Define clearly in your proposal what is included (e.g., "2 revision rounds included"). Additional changes are billed separately. This prevents endless revisions.
What is the difference between a proposal and an estimate?
A proposal is binding - you must deliver at the stated price. An estimate is approximate and can be exceeded by 15-20%. For fixed-price projects, use a proposal.
What does each proposal really cost you?
Create your first proposal in 15 minutes instead of 4 hours. Free, no credit card required.