You want to offer a retainer to a client — but how should you structure it?

What should you include in your contract? 

What factors should you take into account? 

What do you do with unused hours? 

How do you establish firm, fair boundaries?

Here is the contract we use to structure + manage retainers
that lasted anywhere from 18 months to 5+ years.
Enjoy!

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The Complete Retainer Contract is the property of Scintilla LLC, or Michal Eisik Media, and may not be reproduced, shared, or sold by any other entity without express written permission.
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The Complete Retainer Contract$97

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WHAT IT IS:

An expectation-setting retainer contract to ensure your partnership is low-stress — and long-term.

For less than 3% of the typical sum of a monthly retainer, you get:

Specific definitions of retainer scope + copywriter & client responsibilities
(so there’s no “But I meant…” after you’ve invested dozens of hours in a deliverable)

Clearly delineated payment schedule & terms, including trial period
(so you eliminate that awkward “I'm not sure this is working” convo)

Precise timeline & turnaround clauses
(so you set expectations from the start, and ensure they don’t expect email responses at 11 pm)

Warm introductory letter example
(so you show Client you understand their goals and have a solid plan to achieve them)

Pointed guidance around choosing between asset-based and time-based retainer
(so you can learn the pros & cons and make a smart choice) 

17 total essential terms & clauses I’ve compiled over 10+ years of copywriting, dozens of conversations with colleagues, and navigating multiple years-long retainers
(so you go in on the right foot...and save yourself from pricey mistakes and weeks of grief)

  • Total payment
  • 1xThe Complete Retainer Contract$97
    -+

All prices in USD

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