You’ve finished the project, sent the invoice, and you're waiting for payment. Suddenly, the client sends a "Standard Agreement" and says they can't pay you until you sign it.
Stop. This is a massive red flag.
1. The "Backdating" Trap
Clients often do this to sneak in terms they forgot to mention, like Net 90 payment terms or total IP ownership. By signing it now, you might be accidentally giving away rights to work you've already done.
2. Scan it Immediately
If you are in this situation, do not sign anything without running it through our AI Contract Scanner. Look specifically for "Indemnity" and "Work for Hire" clauses that weren't in your original email agreement.
3. How to Respond
If the terms are different from your original verbal or email deal, be firm:
"I'm happy to sign an agreement for our future work together. However, for the current project already delivered, our agreement was based on the terms in my invoice notes. Please process the current payment first."
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is an email agreement binding if I don't sign a PDF?
Yes. In most jurisdictions, an email exchange where a price and scope are agreed upon constitutes a legal contract. A late-arriving PDF cannot retroactively change that without your consent.
Can they withhold my payment?
Technically, they might try, but they have no legal right if the work was accepted. Refer them to your overdue invoice notice and mention that the copyright has not yet transferred because the bill is unpaid.
Should I sign it if I want more work from them?
Only if the terms are fair. Use FreelanceShield to ensure you aren't trading one paycheck for a lifetime of legal liability.