30-60 minEasy

How to End a Freelancer Contract

End a freelancer contract by reviewing the termination clause, giving written notice as required, settling all outstanding invoices, ensuring deliverables and IP are transferred, and confirming the end date in writing.

Last updated: February 2025

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Check the contract terms

Review the agreement for the notice period, any minimum engagement period, and termination provisions.

Tips
  • •If there is no written contract, reasonable notice still applies.
2

Provide written notice

Send a clear written notice to the freelancer stating the end date and referencing the relevant contract clause.

Tips
  • •Email is usually sufficient unless the contract specifies otherwise.
3

Arrange final deliverables and IP transfer

Confirm all work product has been delivered and that IP assignment provisions in the contract have been fulfilled.

Tips
  • •Request source files, passwords, and access credentials.
4

Settle outstanding payments

Pay all invoices for completed work, including any work done during the notice period.

Tips
  • •Late payment of freelancer invoices can incur statutory interest under the Late Payment of Commercial Debts Act 1998.

Legal Requirements

Freelancers are not employees and have no unfair dismissal rights, but the contract terms must still be followed. IR35 status should be considered to ensure the relationship genuinely reflects self-employment. The Late Payment of Commercial Debts (Interest) Act 1998 applies to overdue invoices.

Common Mistakes

Ending the engagement without settling outstanding invoices promptly
Failing to secure IP assignment for work completed before termination
Not confirming the end date in writing, leaving the arrangement ambiguous

Template / Example

Dear [Freelancer Name], Thank you for your work on [Project]. In accordance with clause [X] of our agreement dated [Date], I am writing to confirm that the engagement will end on [Date]. Please submit your final invoice by [Date].

When to Get a Solicitor

If there is a dispute over IP ownership, if the freelancer may claim employment status, or if significant sums are outstanding.

FAQ

Do freelancers have notice period rights in the UK?

Freelancers do not have statutory notice rights like employees. The notice period is whatever was agreed in the contract, or reasonable notice if nothing was specified.

Can a freelancer claim unfair dismissal?

No. Unfair dismissal protection only applies to employees. However, if a tribunal finds the freelancer was actually an employee (misclassified), they may have such rights.

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This is guidance, not legal advice. Consult a solicitor for complex matters.

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