Hourly Rate Contract Examples for Graphic Designers

Explore practical examples of hourly rate contracts for freelance graphic designers to streamline your projects.
By Jamie

Understanding Hourly Rate Contracts for Freelance Graphic Designers

Hourly rate contracts are vital for freelance graphic designers as they outline the terms of compensation based on the hours worked. These contracts ensure clarity and protect both the designer and the client by setting expectations upfront. Below are three diverse examples that can help guide you in creating your own contract tailored to your specific needs.

Example 1: Basic Hourly Rate Agreement for a Logo Design

This contract is ideal for freelance graphic designers working on a specific project, such as a logo design. It clearly states the hourly rate and expected hours of work.

Context: A small business owner needs a logo designed and has approached a freelance graphic designer to create it.

Contract Example:


**Hourly Rate Contract**  
**Client Name:** ABC Corporation  
**Designer Name:** Jane Smith  
**Project Description:** Logo Design  
**Hourly Rate:** $50/hour  
**Estimated Hours:** 20 hours  
**Payment Schedule:** 50% upon contract signing, 50% after project completion.  
**Additional Terms:** Designer will provide 3 initial concepts, with up to 2 rounds of revisions included.  
**Signatures:**  
_____________________ (Client)  
_____________________ (Designer)  

Notes: This contract can be modified to include more details on revision rounds or specific deadlines based on the project’s complexity.

Example 2: Retainer Agreement for Ongoing Design Services

This example is suitable for freelance graphic designers who work with clients on an ongoing basis, providing various design services.

Context: A startup hires a freelance graphic designer for multiple design tasks over several months, needing consistent work on their marketing materials.

Contract Example:


**Hourly Rate Contract - Retainer Agreement**  
**Client Name:** XYZ Startup  
**Designer Name:** John Doe  
**Scope of Work:** Ongoing graphic design services including marketing materials, social media graphics, and website updates.  
**Hourly Rate:** $75/hour  
**Retainer Fee:** $1,500 per month for up to 20 hours of work. Hours exceeding the retainer will be billed at the hourly rate.  
**Payment Terms:** Monthly invoicing, payment due within 14 days.  
**Termination Clause:** Either party can terminate the agreement with 30 days written notice.  
**Signatures:**  
_____________________ (Client)  
_____________________ (Designer)  

Notes: This contract can be adapted for different retainer amounts and hourly rates based on the designer’s experience and the client’s budget.

Example 3: Project-Based Hourly Rate Contract with Milestones

This contract is beneficial for freelance graphic designers who undertake larger projects that require multiple phases or milestones.

Context: A nonprofit organization is seeking a graphic designer to create an annual report, which involves several stages of design and feedback.

Contract Example:


**Hourly Rate Contract with Milestones**  
**Client Name:** Nonprofit Organization  
**Designer Name:** Emily Johnson  
**Project Description:** Annual Report Design  
**Hourly Rate:** $60/hour  
**Estimated Hours:** 30 hours total, divided into three milestones:  
  - **Milestone 1:** Initial design concepts (10 hours)  
  - **Milestone 2:** Client feedback and revisions (10 hours)  
  - **Milestone 3:** Final adjustments and delivery (10 hours)  
**Payment Terms:** 30% deposit upon signing, 40% after Milestone 2, and 30% upon project completion.  
**Additional Terms:** Each milestone will have a deadline to ensure timely delivery.  
**Signatures:**  
_____________________ (Client)  
_____________________ (Designer)  

Notes: This example allows for flexibility in the number of milestones and can be adjusted according to project requirements, ensuring both parties are aligned throughout the design process.