Free tool
Change order template for freelancers
Use this when a client asks for work outside the original agreement. Enter the details once, preview a professional change order, and send a plain client message — all in your browser. We do not store your data.
Document preview
CHANGE ORDER Date: [Date] Project: [Project name] Client: [Client name] Prepared by: [Your name] 1. Original scope (summary) [Brief summary of what was already agreed and priced.] 2. Requested change [Describe the new or expanded work.] 3. Pricing for this change Additional fee: [hourly rate × hours] 4. Schedule Timeline impact: [days added to delivery] 5. Payment terms [e.g. 50% to start, balance on delivery; due within 14 days of approval.] 6. Approval Please confirm in writing by [deadline] to authorize this work. Work on this change begins after approval. — Client approval: _____________________________ Date: __________ Freelancer: _____________________________ Date: __________
Client message
Hi [Client], Quick note on the project: the additional request sits outside what we originally scoped. I can price it as a separate change order once we align on hours or a fixed fee. If you want to proceed, reply and I’ll send the formal change order for sign-off. Thanks, [Your name]
Log extras on every project
ScopeLine keeps the original deal, totals unpaid scope creep, and drafts reply lines before you start work for free.
Start free on ScopeLineChange order FAQ
- What is a change order template for freelancers?
- It is a short document that records work outside the original agreement: what changed, what it costs, how it affects the timeline, and how the client approves it. Freelancers use it so extras are priced before work starts.
- When should I send a change order?
- Send one as soon as the client asks for work that was not in the original scope — before you start. Waiting until the end of the project makes it harder to collect.
- Should I charge hourly or a fixed fee on a change order?
- Use hourly when the scope is still fuzzy; use a fixed fee when you can define the deliverable. Either way, put the number in writing before you begin.
- Does a change order need a signature?
- Written approval is what matters — email confirmation counts for most freelance jobs. A signature line helps on larger projects or when your contract requires it.
- What if the client will not approve the change order?
- Do not do the extra work unpaid. Offer to keep the original scope, descope the change, or pause until they approve the price in writing.
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