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Types of Contracts

Learn more about the service agreement contracts available on Contra

Caroline avatar
Written by Caroline
Updated over 4 months ago

Contra offers flexible, reliable contract options tailored for various needs.

In this article, we'll explore each contract type, including which works best for each project scenario and the level of customization available.

Quick guide to contracts

Contract Type

Best For

Customization

Contra contract template (default)

Standard freelance projects

Standardized

Locally-compliant contracts

International or region-specific project work

Tailored

Custom PDF contract

Contracts with specific guidelines

Fully customizable

Contra contract template (default)

  • Ideal for standard freelancer engagements

  • An easy-to-use template that covers essential clauses:

    • scope of work

    • timelines

    • deliverables

    • payment terms

    • IP, confidentiality

    • dispute resolution

    • termination

  • Rates, dates, and add terms to fit each project

  • Provides clarity, protection, and structure with minimal setup time—great for rapid contracting


Locally compliant contract

  • For work needing region-specific legal frameworks

  • Contract templates are tailored to meet local regulations

  • Automatically addresses jurisdictional requirements, which may be helpful for global teams or specific regulatory environments.

How to select a locally compliant contract template

  1. After a project has been created, a contract must be chosen for the project work

  2. Select the 'Locally compliant project' option

  3. Click 'Select country', and use the dropdown menu to make a selection

    4. Finalize the selection by clicking on 'Select contract'


Custom contract (upload your own PDF)

  • For highly customized service agreements, where you can upload any contract PDF and keep control over all terms

How to upload your custom contract

How to include additional terms


How to send a contract on Contra

  1. Navigate to Projects → click Send proposal.

  2. Input project details

  3. Choose your contract type:

    • Contra service agreement template

    • Locally-compliant version (auto-adjusted if applicable)

    • Custom PDF upload

  4. Preview and send for e‑signature.

  5. Once signed, the project is officially launched. Escrow begins if applicable.


Contract features and management

  • Universal signing: Contracts can be sent to anyone via email—no Contra account needed

  • Dispute support: Templates include dispute‑resolution clauses; Contra can assist in facilitating amicable resolutions during the 14‑day period

  • Escrow & payments: One‑time (fixed/hourly) contracts support secure escrow payments, with clear release guidelines

  • Centralized workflow: Contracts, proposals, invoices, and payments live in your Contra dashboard

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