Every one-person business needs these core documents, regardless of industry:
1. Client services agreement. This is your master contract. It defines the relationship between you and your client: scope of services, payment terms, intellectual property ownership, confidentiality, liability limitations, and termination provisions. A well-drafted services agreement prevents the most common disputes: scope creep, late payment, IP ownership conflicts, and unclear termination rights. Have an attorney draft your initial template, then customize it for each engagement.
2. Statement of work (SOW) / project proposal. For each project, a SOW defines the specific deliverables, timeline, milestones, and pricing. The SOW operates under the master services agreement and allows you to take on multiple projects with the same client without renegotiating the entire agreement. Keep SOWs specific and measurable: "Deliver a redesigned website with 10 pages by March 1" is enforceable. "Help with website improvements" is not.
3. Non-disclosure agreement (NDA). Clients often share sensitive information during initial discussions before an engagement is formalized. A mutual NDA protects both parties and demonstrates your professionalism. Maintain a simple, balanced NDA template that you can send before any substantive discussion.
4. Invoice template. Professional invoices include your business name and contact information, the client's information, invoice number, date, description of services, amounts, payment terms, and payment instructions. Consistent, professional invoicing reduces payment delays and creates clear financial records.
5. Change order. When project scope changes after the SOW is signed, a change order documents the modification: what changed, the impact on timeline, the impact on pricing, and both parties' agreement. Change orders prevent scope creep and protect your income on modified projects.