Terms & Conditions

What are your fees?

My fees are typically determined on a per-project basis. Sometimes projects can be difficult to estimate, and an hourly freelance copywriting fee is most appropriate.

What do your fees include?

Research, meetings (whether over the phone or in person), writing, and one round of copy revisions.

Do you require a deposit?

I require an initial deposit of 50% prior to commencement of a project. The balance on all freelance copywriting fees is due upon completion of services within a 10 day grace period.

Do you require a contract before you start work?

Yes. I require a signed Letter of Agreement which confirms the details of our business arrangement. After we establish the project’s scope, I will send you the Letter of Agreement, which you will need to sign and then return to me. Please keep a copy for your own records.

What is your process?

First of all, I start all of my client relationships with an initial consultation where we will discuss your copywriting needs, goals, and deadlines. The next step is I will create a proposal or 'statement-of-work' outlining our discussion and includes an estimate. If you decide you'd like to work with me, I will mail or fax a Letter of Agreement which verifies our business arrangement. Once you've signed and returned it to me, I will begin working on the project.

I find the process moves much more smoothly if you can give as much background material as possible, including flyers, marketing emails, case studies, reports, media articles, websites or any other kind of company information.

After I’ve sent you the initial draft, I’ll request that you carefully review it and reply with questions and revisions for discussion. Since copywriting is essentially a collaborative process, clients should expect revisions. I’m always open to edits and constructive criticism – no ego here. Clear, open communication is critical in order to get the best results.

What happens if I have to cancel my project before it is finished, or if I change my mind about the scope before it’s finished?

Once a project is in progress, and if you wish to cancel, payment will be pro-rated for the work that has been completed up to that point. If the project changes appreciably in scope, we will have to negotiate a new proposal and cost estimate.

Why don't you have samples of your work on your site?

I regard all my client work confidential. If you'd like to see samples of my copywriting, I will be more than happy to email them to you.

What if I just need a revision of the copy I already have – do you still charge your full fee?

I determine all fees on a case-by-case basis. If you simply need a revision of existing copy, I'm happy to accommodate you by adjusting my rates to reflect the actual amount of editing required.

You don't have any experience in my industry – how can you effectively write about it?

Research is key for any freelance copywriter, and it’s included in my fees. Before writing even a single word, I spend considerable time learning about your organization, industry and audiences.

Can we still work together effectively if we’re in different locations?

Of course! My clients are scattered all over the United States as well as overseas. Email and telephone make it easy for me to work as your freelance copywriter – regardless of your location.

Are you available for on-site meetings?

We can negotiate on-site meetings on a case-by-case basis.

Do I own all rights to the copy you've written for my business?

Once the project’s fees have been paid in full, you own the rights to all work created for you. However, I may ask if it’s acceptable to use your project in my client portfolio. I will be sensitive to all confidentiality concerns.

What's the best way to contact you if I need a freelance copywriter?

Email is the quickest way to reach me. I can be contacted at jill@jill-ward.com