Personal Services Agreement
What Is a Personal Services Agreement?
A personal services agreement is a simplified form of an independent contractor contract used for straightforward service engagements. It sets out the duties to be performed, the deliverables to be delivered and the compensation owed to the service provider. Like an independent contractor agreement, it recognizes that the provider is self‑employed and controls how the work is done. The Internal Revenue Service explains that independent contractors perform services for the general public and that employers control only the result of the work.
Because the scope is typically narrow and the risk lower, personal services agreements tend to be shorter and more approachable. They are ideal for one‑time or short‑term tasks such as administrative support, cleaning, coaching, speaking engagements or other services where the parties want to document expectations without a lengthy contract.
When to Use This Agreement
Use a personal services agreement when hiring an individual or small business for a specific task or project that does not justify a full independent contractor agreement. It is suitable for engagements like personal assistance, event planning, tutoring, house‑cleaning, one‑off consultancy or other limited services. It ensures clarity about payment, timeline and scope while preserving the provider’s independent status.
Key Elements
- Description of Services: A clear outline of the tasks or services to be provided.
- Payment Terms: Flat fee, hourly or per‑task pricing and when payment is due.
- Schedule: Start date, end date and any milestones or deadlines.
- Independent Status: Confirmation that the provider is self‑employed and responsible for their own taxes.
- Confidentiality (optional): If sensitive information will be shared, include a confidentiality clause.
Our personal services agreement template keeps the language straightforward while ensuring that both parties understand their rights and obligations. It’s a quick way to formalize a short‑term service engagement without confusion.
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