Editor contract template

This a editor contract template sample that you can use free of charge. You can copy and paste it into Microsoft Word or Google Docs and edit as you like.

Editor Contract

This Editor Contract (the "Contract") is entered into on _________________________ [Date] by and between:

Editor: _________________________ [Editor or Company Name] located at _________________________ [Editor Address] (the "Provider").
Client: _________________________ [Client Name] located at _________________________ [Client Address] (the "Client").

1. Scope of Services

The Provider agrees to provide editorial services to the Client as outlined below:

1. Service Description

The Provider shall perform editing services for the Client’s content located at or delivered via _________________________ [Content Source or Delivery Method] on _________________________ [Days of the Week], between the hours of _________________________ [Start Time] and _________________________ [End Time].

2. Services Included

The editorial services shall include but are not limited to:

_________________________ [Proofreading for grammar, spelling, and punctuation]
_________________________ [Copy editing for clarity, tone, and consistency]
_________________________ [Structural or developmental editing as needed]
_________________________ [Fact-checking and accuracy review]
_________________________ [Formatting according to agreed style guide]
_________________________ [Revisions based on client feedback]
_________________________ [Other editorial tasks as agreed upon by both parties]

3. Frequency

The services shall be performed _________________________ [Frequency] per _________________________ [Week/Month].

2. Terms of Contract

This Contract shall commence on _________________________ [Start Date] and shall continue for an initial term of _________________________ [Number] months/years, unless terminated earlier as provided herein.
After the initial term, this Contract shall automatically renew for successive periods of _________________________ [Number] months/years, unless either party provides written notice of termination at least _________________________ [Number] days prior to the expiration of the then-current term.

3. Payment Terms

The Client agrees to pay the Provider a total sum of $_________________________ [Amount] per _________________________ [Frequency] for the editorial services rendered.
Payment shall be made _________________________ [Payment Method] within _________________________ [Number] days of receipt of invoice.
Late payments shall incur a late fee of _________________________ [Late Fee Amount] for each week the payment is overdue.

4. Termination

Either party may terminate this Contract by providing written notice to the other party _________________________ [Number] days prior to the intended termination date.
In the event of termination, the Client shall pay for all services rendered up to the termination date.

5. Force Majeure

Neither party shall be liable for any failure or delay in performing their obligations under this Contract if such failure or delay is due to circumstances beyond their reasonable control, including but not limited to acts of God, war, terrorism, civil unrest, government action, fire, flood, or natural disasters.

6. Confidentiality

Both parties agree to maintain the confidentiality of any proprietary or sensitive information disclosed during the course of this Contract, including unpublished manuscripts, documents, drafts, or other client materials.

7. Governing Law and Jurisdiction

This Contract shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of _________________________ [Your State or Country]. Any disputes arising out of or in connection with this Contract shall be resolved exclusively by the courts of _________________________ [Your State or County].

8. Entire Agreement

This Contract constitutes the entire agreement between the parties and supersedes all prior agreements, understandings, and negotiations, whether written or oral.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Contract as of the date first above written.

Provider
Signature: _________________________ [Signature]
Name and title: _________________________ [Name and Title]
Date: _________________________ [Date]

Client
Signature: _________________________ [Signature]
Name and title: _________________________ [Name]
Date: _________________________ [Date]

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What's an Editor Contract?

An editor contract is a formal agreement between a client and an editor that outlines the expectations, responsibilities, and terms under which editorial services will be provided. This type of contract is essential for maintaining clarity, protecting both parties, and ensuring that the editing work—whether for articles, books, videos, or digital content—meets the desired standards. In this article, we'll break down the core elements of an editor contract, why it's important, and what to consider before signing one.

1. Definition and Scope

An editor contract defines the specific editorial services to be delivered. This includes the type of editing (proofreading, copy editing, developmental editing, structural editing), the nature of the content, and the level of involvement required. It often outlines whether the editor will focus on grammar and accuracy, improve clarity and style, reorganize content structure, or contribute to deeper developmental work. Establishing scope early prevents scope creep and ensures both parties understand the expected outcome.

2. Parties Involved

The contract clearly identifies the editor providing the service and the client receiving it. It includes contact details for both parties and clarifies their roles. In some cases, it may also specify whether the editor is acting as an independent contractor or part of a company, which affects legal and tax considerations.

3. Terms and Conditions

Editor contracts include the terms and conditions governing the working relationship. This section typically covers payment structure, rates, invoicing schedules, revision policies, deadlines, and cancellation terms. It may also outline how feedback is handled, how many revisions are included, and what happens if deadlines are missed by either side. Some agreements also include liability limitations and dispute resolution procedures.

4. Duration and Renewal

The contract specifies how long the agreement will last—whether it applies to a single project or covers ongoing editorial work. It may include renewal provisions for long-term collaborations, allowing the contract to be extended automatically or renegotiated as needed. Termination clauses are also included, detailing when and how either party can end the agreement.

5. Service Specifications

Service specifications detail the editorial standards, deliverable formats, required style guides, and workflow expectations. This section may include guidelines regarding tone, voice, and writing style, along with formatting requirements or tools to be used (such as Google Docs, Word, or editing platforms). Clear specifications ensure consistency and help the editor deliver work aligned with the client's vision.

6. Legal Compliance

Editor contracts must comply with relevant legal norms, such as copyright laws, intellectual property rights, and independent contractor regulations. The agreement often clarifies who holds the copyright to the edited material—typically the client, unless otherwise negotiated. It may also outline editor responsibilities regarding plagiarism checks or adherence to publishing standards.

7. Confidentiality and Privacy

Because editors often work with unpublished manuscripts, business documents, or private communications, confidentiality clauses are essential. These sections protect sensitive content and restrict the editor from sharing or using the material outside the project. Privacy considerations are especially important for corporate clients, authors, and content creators handling proprietary information.

Conclusion

Editor contracts are indispensable for establishing a smooth working relationship between clients and editors. By outlining services, expectations, deadlines, payment terms, and legal protections, they prevent misunderstandings and set the foundation for a productive collaboration. Whether you're hiring an editor for a one-off project or engaging in long-term content production, understanding the components of an editor contract ensures clarity, professionalism, and a successful outcome for both parties.