SEO Services Contract Template

What is an SEO services contract template?

A reusable, legally structured document that defines the working relationship between an SEO provider and a client, including scope, payment terms, responsibilities, reporting, and protections for both sides.

SEO projects often run for months—from a six‑month plan to ongoing retainers—so having a clear template up front helps prevent misunderstandings, keeps expectations aligned, and delivers a consistent, professional client experience from the first project.

Definition and purpose of an SEO services contract

This section defines what the contract covers and why it matters.

A written agreement between an SEO provider and a client sets out what work will be done, when it will be completed, how results are reported, and how both parties are protected legally. It also specifies payment terms, confidentiality, IP rights, and dispute resolution to keep both sides aligned.

This template acts as a starting point that you customize for each engagement—whether it’s a 6-month SEO plan or an ongoing retainer—and prevents scope creep by detailing deliverables, milestones, change procedures, and acceptance criteria. It also creates a professional client experience from day one by clarifying responsibilities and the process for requests and approvals.

How an SEO services contract supports long-term SEO plans

This section explains why the contract must reflect long-term work.

SEO work is inherently long-term, with campaigns typically running 3–6 months or longer. The template should spell out phases and milestones by month, such as month 1 discovery and technical audit, month 2 on-page optimization, month 3 content planning, month 4 outreach and link building, and month 5–6 review and adjustment. Including renewal terms and explicit performance checkpoints helps you reuse the same structure across clients while customizing deliverables and timelines for each campaign.

For reporting and governance, specify the tools and metrics you’ll use (GA4, Google Search Console, Looker Studio dashboards, and Ahrefs or SEMrush data) and a clear reporting cadence. This ensures both sides agree on progress and when to adjust strategy, making renewal decisions smoother and keeping clients informed throughout the plan.

Key parties and agreement framework

This section covers who is involved at the start of the contract.

The contract should begin with the essential parties and mechanics: the legal names of the client and provider, business addresses, contact details, the effective date, and the type of engagement (project-based, 6-month package, or ongoing retainer). It may also note the governing law and dispute resolution venue, if applicable.

This opening anchors the rest of the clauses, clarifies who is bound by the terms, and ties the contract to a specific SEO campaign or plan so that scope, timelines, and accountability are clearly enforced throughout the engagement.

Why an SEO services contract is crucial

In the world of SEO, results are not instant, and plans can shift when algorithms change or client needs evolve. A formal SEO services contract helps both sides navigate these realities by setting clear expectations, defining deliverables, and outlining how communication happens when things don’t go exactly as hoped. It’s less about heavy legalese and more about creating a shared playbook for how work will proceed, what success looks like, and how changes are handled.

To set realistic expectations for SEO results

SEO results take time and are influenced by factors outside a provider’s control, such as Google’s shifting algorithms and seasonal search patterns. A contract can explicitly state that no specific rankings or traffic levels are guaranteed, and instead emphasize deliverables and best-effort performance. This reframes the job from chasing a fixed number to delivering consistent process and value over time.

A practical plan usually covers a 3–6 month window to start showing progress. The contract can outline milestones like a baseline site audit, keyword mapping, technical fixes, content calendar creation, and monthly reporting. By naming timeframes and milestones, both parties know when to expect movement and when to reassess strategy, reducing pressure and protecting against rushed, low-quality work.

To keep everyone aligned, the agreement should specify how success will be measured—using GA4, Google Search Console, Ahrefs, or SEMrush dashboards—and how updates will be shared. Clear reporting turns vague hopes into trackable activity, even when rankings wobble after a major algorithm update.

To prevent scope creep and misaligned deliverables

scope creep in SEO happens when requests drift beyond the original plan—extra keywords, new locations, unexpected content creation, or technical projects creeping into the engagement. Without guardrails, this can push timelines, inflate costs, and strain the client-provider relationship. A well-crafted contract eliminates ambiguity by listing what is in scope and what is out, with clear limits and neutral change paths.

Concrete deliverables and a formal change-request process keep projects healthy. For example, the contract can specify deliverables such as a monthly content calendar with 4–6 blog posts, a technical remediation checklist, and quarterly reporting. It should also spell out how changes are requested, assessed for impact on timeline and price, and approved in writing before work begins. This discipline helps prevent disputes and keeps both sides aligned on progress and expectations.

When ambiguity appears—such as a sudden push to optimize an additional page or target a new city—the contract provides a documented workflow: the request, impact assessment, revised scope, price adjustment, and an updated timeline. That structure preserves trust and ensures the engagement moves forward with consent from everyone involved.

To protect both client and provider legally

The contract template serves as a practical safety net for both sides. The provider gains protection from non-payment, unreasonable demands, or liability for external factors, while the client gains clarity on service standards, confidentiality, and exit options. Together, these elements create professional, predictable relationships rather than ad-hoc negotiations that can turn personal or emotional.

Key legal clauses—liability, indemnification, governing law, and termination—help resolve disagreements professionally. A liability clause typically caps damages to the fees paid in the prior 12 months, while indemnification covers third-party claims arising from the provider’s work. Governing law specifies which jurisdiction governs the contract, and termination provisions define how either party can end the engagement with notice and a path for wind-down. These clauses support calm, structured conversations when tensions rise, rather than heated, improvised discussions.

Confidentiality provisions protect sensitive client data and proprietary strategies, including access credentials, analytics data, and internal workflows. By documenting expectations for data access and security, both sides know how information is handled, reducing risk and building trust as projects scale.

To support long-term retainers and recurring revenue

Many SEO engagements run on a retainer or multi-month plan because search results accumulate over time and require ongoing optimization. A contract that clearly defines retainer length, payment cadence, and review points makes it easier to build stable, recurring revenue. For example, a typical setup might include an initial 6-month term with automatic renewals and monthly payments, giving both sides certainty and the capacity to plan ahead.

The template should also describe renewal processes, rate review points, and how performance reviews affect continuation or adjustment of the scope. A reusable SEO services contract template helps you onboard new recurring clients quickly while keeping terms consistent across your portfolio. With reliable terms in place, you can focus more on delivering ongoing improvements—such as content updates, site audits, and backlink strategies—knowing the commercial framework is solid and predictable.

To keep the contract practical in 2025, include references to tools you use for ongoing work—Google Analytics 4, Google Search Console, Screaming Frog, Ahrefs, and SEMrush—and note access requirements. This ensures you have the necessary data feeds and permissions in place from day one, reducing friction during onboarding and enabling smoother, repeatable retainer cycles.

Core components of an SEO services contract template

A well‑crafted contract template helps you win work faster and protects both sides. This detailed breakdown covers the standard sections and clauses most SEO providers should include. Use these clause‑by‑clause guidelines to create a reusable, customizable template for different SEO offerings in 2025. You’ll find practical language, clear deliverables, and references to common planning documents like a 6 month SEO plan pdf template to keep everyone aligned.

Client details and provider details

Start by clearly identifying both parties. The contract should name who is paying and who is delivering the work, with accurate contact points. This makes invoicing and communications straightforward and avoids confusion later.

Include fields such as legal company name, primary contact, address, email, phone, and business registration numbers where relevant. For small agencies and freelancers, it’s crucial that these details match the legal entities that will pay or be paid. Consistency matters: when the contract, invoices, and any accompanying 6 month SEO plan documentation use the same names, it reduces questions about ownership and payments.

Fields to include should cover: legal entity name, primary contact (name and title), business address, official email, phone number, and registration numbers or tax IDs. Consistency across all documents helps prevent disputes and makes audits smoother.

• Legal entity name (as registered)
• Primary contact person and title
• Business address and main contact email
• Phone number and preferred communication method
• Business registration numbers or tax IDs
• Notes on consistent naming across contract, invoices, and plan docs

Scope of work and SEO deliverables

Draft the scope in practical, client‑friendly language so there’s no guesswork about what’s included. A clear scope helps set expectations and reduces disputes about what work qualifies for payment.

Outline typical SEO deliverables in logical categories: keyword research, on‑page optimization, technical audits and fixes, content recommendations or creation, link‑building outreach, local SEO tasks, and regular reporting. Use bullet lists or tables to separate one‑time setup tasks from ongoing monthly activities, and align these with any internal 6 month SEO plan pdf template your team uses for planning. Explicitly state what’s included and what’s excluded to avoid scope creep.

By presenting deliverables in client‑facing terms, you give the client a concrete understanding of what they are paying for and how progress will be measured.

• Keyword research and target keyword list
• On‑page optimization (titles, meta descriptions, headers, internal linking)
• Technical audits and fixes (crawl issues, mobile usability, Core Web Vitals)
• Content recommendations or creation (briefs, editorial guidance)
• Link‑building outreach (prospecting, outreach emails, placements)
• Local SEO tasks (NAP consistency, Google Business Profile)
• Reporting (monthly dashboards and summaries)

Timelines, milestones, and contract duration

Define when work begins, how long the engagement lasts, and how milestones are structured. A clear timeline helps both sides plan workload and resources.

Suggest an initial term of 3–6 months with renewal options if the client is satisfied. Outline example milestones to illustrate progression, such as an audit and strategy in month one, on‑page optimization in months two to three, and link building plus content expansion in months four to six. Tying milestones to a 6 month SEO plan pdf template keeps planning consistent with your internal processes and ensures milestones map to the client’s expectations.

Include language about milestone acceptance criteria and what happens if a milestone isn’t met on time. This protects both sides and clarifies the path to project adjustments or extensions.

• Initial term: 3–6 months, with renewal options
• Milestone 1 (Month 1): Audit and strategy plan
• Milestones 2–3 (Months 2–3): On‑page optimization and technical fixes
• Milestones 4–6 (Months 4–6): Link building and content expansion
• Ongoing: monthly reporting and optimization

Client responsibilities and access requirements

Detail why the client must do certain things for the work to succeed. Clear client duties prevent delays and keep the project on track.

List the required access to analytics, CMS, hosting, and Search Console. Include the need for brand guidelines and content approvals, and specify that the client may need to implement some recommendations if the provider does not have direct access. Include examples of delays caused by slow approvals or missing access, and add language that deadlines and performance estimates may shift if client responsibilities aren’t met on time.

Identifying client responsibilities up front helps set realistic timelines and reduces later blame for missed milestones.

• Access to Google Analytics 4 and Google Search Console
• CMS login or necessary read/write permissions
• Hosting access for performance checks or monitoring
• Brand guidelines and content approvals on schedule
• Timely implementation of recommendations when direct access isn’t available
• Clear point of contact for approvals and asset delivery

Payment terms and billing structure

Describe the key elements of the payment clause clearly. A straightforward payment structure reduces disputes and speeds up onboarding.

Cover total fees and how pricing is set (project‑based, monthly retainer, or per deliverable). State when invoices are sent and when payments are due, plus acceptable payment methods. Include late payment policies, potential penalties or suspension of work, and any upfront deposits required before starting an initial 6 month SEO plan. Clarify whether fees cover labor only or also expenses such as tools, content creation, or advertising spend.

Having precise terms helps both sides forecast cash flow and ensures there are no surprises when the bill arrives.

• Pricing model: project, monthly retainer, or per deliverable
• Invoice cadence and due date (e.g., Net 15 or Net 30)
• Payment methods (bank transfer, credit card, PayPal)
• Late payment penalties and suspension of work terms
• Upfront deposit required before starting (example: 20–50%)
• Clarification on whether fees cover labor only or include tools or content

Reporting cadence and performance metrics

Describe how reporting works so the client understands what to expect and when. Set expectations for transparency and accountability.

Include the reporting frequency (for example, monthly), format (dashboards or written summaries), and who receives them. Mention typical metrics such as organic traffic, rankings for target keywords, conversions, and technical health indicators. Connect the reporting plan to your internal 6 month SEO plan pdf so the contract promises align with actual tracking workflows. Clarify that these reports demonstrate progress even when final outcomes are still developing, helping the client stay informed throughout the engagement.

Clear reporting builds trust and gives the client a tangible view of progress and value.

• Frequency: monthly reports (or as agreed)
• Format: dashboard (Looker Studio) or written summaries
• Recipients: client team and designated manager
• Key metrics: organic traffic, keyword rankings, conversions, technical health
• Data sources: GA4, GSC, crawlers, and internal analytics
• Alignment with internal 6 month SEO plan pdf

Intellectual property and assignment of rights

This clause clarifies who owns what after work is delivered. It protects both the client’s use of the results and the provider’s ongoing methods.

Describe a standard approach where, once the client is paid in full, they own the work delivered. The provider, however, retains ownership of their internal processes, templates, and tools (including any 6 month SEO plan pdf template used internally). Include a statement about whether the provider may showcase the project in portfolios or case studies, and note any restrictions on sharing sensitive data.

Clear IP terms prevent post‑engagement disputes and help both sides use the assets effectively.

• Deliverables ownership transfer upon full payment
• Provider ownership of internal processes, templates, tools, and templates used internally
• License for client use of delivered materials
• Provider portfolio and case study rights with client consent

Confidentiality and non-disclosure

Confidentiality protects sensitive business information, analytics data, access credentials, and strategies shared during the engagement. NDA language helps build trust and reduces risk.

Outline the basic commitments from both sides not to share each other’s information with third parties, except as necessary to perform the work. This is especially important for agencies handling multiple clients in the same industry, where data segmentation and careful handling are critical. Include practical protections such as data security expectations and permitted disclosures to employees or contractors who need access to perform the work.

Well‑defined confidentiality terms make it clear what information is protected and for how long.

• Definition of confidential information
• Duration of confidentiality obligations
• Permitted disclosures to employees or contractors
• Security measures and data handling expectations
• Exclusions (information already public or independently developed)

Terms and conditions, termination, and governing law

Summarize general terms that cover the contract’s duration, renewal options, and how parties can terminate. Clear termination rights help avoid disputes when plans change.

Explain common termination triggers: material breach, non‑payment, or convenience with notice (for example, 30 days). Include how final payments, handover of work, and access revocation will be handled at the end of a 6 month SEO plan or retainer. Finally, specify governing law and jurisdiction so both parties know which legal framework applies if disputes arise. This clarity reduces friction and speeds up resolution if problems occur.

Having well‑defined termination and governing law terms protects both sides and provides a predictable exit path.

• Duration, renewal, and termination rights
• Termination triggers (breach, non‑payment, convenience) with notice
• Final payments, handover of work, and access revocation procedures
• Governing law and jurisdiction

Acceptance and signatures

Finish with a clear acceptance section where both parties agree to the terms. This section confirms mutual consent and readiness to begin work on the agreed timeline.

Include fields for name, title, company, signature, and date for each party. Note that e‑signatures are now standard and legally valid in most regions, making it easy to finalize SEO services contracts quickly and start on time. Clear acceptance helps prevent delays and sets the project in motion smoothly.

Structured acceptance ensures both sides clearly acknowledge the scope, terms, and timeline before work begins.

• Authorized signatory name and title for client
• Authorized signatory name and title for provider
• Printed name, signature, and date for both parties
• Option for electronic signature where legally allowed

How to customize an SEO services contract template

Turning a generic SEO contract into a practical, client-specific agreement starts with mapping your real services to the scope, timelines, pricing, and responsibilities you actually deliver. This guide gives you a step-by-step approach tailored for a typical 6‑month SEO plan or retainer. You’ll learn how to adapt scope, set realistic timelines, structure pricing, define responsibilities, and adjust risk so the contract matches how you work in 2025.

To align scope with your SEO service offering

Begin by mapping your true services to the scope section. Think about the core areas you reliably deliver, such as technical SEO, local SEO, or content-led strategies, and prioritize those in the contract while trimming any services you don’t plan to perform for this client. A practical walkthrough helps here: review your internal checklist or 6 month SEO plan PDF template, group tasks into categories, and translate them into high‑level deliverables and responsibilities rather than raw tasks.

In practice, create high‑level deliverables that correspond to your offerings. For example, if you specialize in technical SEO, you could frame deliverables as “Technical audit and critical fixes,” “Crawl optimization and site health improvements,” and “Performance enhancements for core pages.” If Local SEO is a focus, frame deliverables like “NAP consistency audit,” “local listing optimization,” and “local review management strategy.” This keeps the contract readable and auditable while showing what you actually do each month. Trim irrelevant sections so the client understands what they’re paying for and what they won’t get unless scoped differently in a change order.

Finally, include a concise appendix that defines each deliverable and its success criteria, avoiding endless task lists. Use neutral language like “Provider delivers X by Y date with Z metrics,” and tie each item to a measurable outcome where appropriate (for example, “crawl errors reduced by 80%,” or “local rankings improved for 5 target queries”). This approach helps both sides stay aligned as the project progresses and makes future scope adjustments smoother.

To adapt timelines to project or retainer length

Explain how to modify the duration and milestone sections based on the engagement type. For a short audit, a 3–4 week window may work; for a 3–6 month growth plan, set monthly milestones; for ongoing retainers, outline quarterly reviews with rolling deliverables. Provide example phrasing for an initial 6 month term, with options to renew or shift terms after reviewing results. Emphasize that the contract should avoid overly rigid promises on exact dates, instead framing timelines as target windows that depend on timely client collaboration and approvals.

Structure timeline language to reflect reality. For instance, state that “Deliverables are scheduled as targets within Month 1–6, subject to client feedback and timely approvals.” Include a mechanism for changes: a signed change order will adjust milestones and fees. This keeps the agreement flexible and fair if delays occur, and it helps prevent disputes over missed dates when external inputs slow the process.

In practice, pair the timeline with a simple project calendar or a project management tool link (like Notion, Asana, or Jira) and mention it in the scope. Schedule recurring check-ins—monthly for retainers or biweekly during intense phases—and tie these to reporting cycles. A clear cadence makes expectations concrete and improves trust during the 6‑month journey.

To set clear and sustainable pricing structures

Guide the writer to explain how pricing terms should reflect the provider’s model: flat monthly retainer, tiered packages, or a hybrid approach (setup fee plus ongoing). For a 6 month SEO plan, many providers front‑load more upfront work but keep payments even to smooth cash flow; the contract should clarify this arrangement and avoid confusing billings. Include language about price reviews or adjustments at renewal, especially for long‑term clients.

When choosing a structure, align it with the plan length and deliverables. For example, a flat monthly retainer of $2,500–$6,000 for small to mid‑sized sites is common in 2025, with a setup fee of $1,000–$3,000 for initial audits and foundation work. If you use tiered packages, define what each tier includes (for instance, Tier 1 covers foundational audits and monthly reporting, Tier 2 adds content optimization and link outreach). Hybrid models can pair an upfront setup fee with a predictable ongoing monthly rate, which helps clients see where their money goes in the early months and why it stabilizes later.

Include a clause for price reviews at renewal, with clear notice periods (for example, 60 days before renewal) and criteria for adjustments (inflation, scope changes, or platform costs). This transparency helps avoid surprises and keeps relationships healthy with long‑term clients. Mention how payments will be scheduled and what happens if a client delays approvals, so cash flow remains predictable for your business.

To tailor responsibilities and communication protocols

Describe how users should personalize sections that define client and provider responsibilities, reflecting how they actually work. Provide examples: whether the provider implements changes directly or only advises; whether meetings are monthly or quarterly; and which communication channels are considered official for approvals. Suggest including a simple communication plan that matches the cadence of reporting and key phases in a 6 month SEO plan, so everyone knows when to expect updates and decisions.

Clarify roles and touchpoints. For example, state that the provider will execute approved optimizations within the stated timelines, while the client provides access to analytics, content approvals, and internal stakeholders for speedier decisions. Set meeting cadence: a monthly review call plus a quarterly strategic session, with written updates delivered via email and project management tools as the official channel for approvals and task assignments. This clarity reduces back-and-forth and keeps the project on track through Month 1–6.

Consider including a responsibilities matrix as an appendix (RACI), so it’s explicit who is Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed for each milestone. That makes the plan concrete and simplifies governance, especially in larger organizations or cross‑functional teams. Align the plan with your 6‑month cycle and ensure the client understands their obligations in a predictable, low‑friction way.

To adjust risk, liability, and guarantees

Explain that different clients and project sizes come with different risk levels. Instruct the writer to show how to adjust liability caps, indemnification details, and guarantee language to match the scale of the engagement and the provider’s risk tolerance. Stress that SEO outcomes cannot be fully guaranteed; the contract should focus on quality of work, adherence to best practices, and transparent reporting rather than promising specific rankings or revenue figures.

Offer practical guardrails for risk. For example, set a liability cap equal to a defined multiple of fees paid in the prior six months, and exclude indirect damages. Include a clause that clarifies expectations around acceptance testing, warranty periods for implemented changes, and remedies if deliverables do not meet the agreed quality standards. Be explicit that the provider’s guarantee is about process fidelity and measurable outputs (like crawl health, page speed improvements, or audit findings resolved), not guaranteed ranking results, which are influenced by many external factors beyond control.

Best practices to use an SEO services contract with clients

Using an SEO services contract effectively goes beyond the document itself. By introducing it early, discussing key terms in plain language, and referencing it throughout the client lifecycle, you can set clear expectations, minimize disputes, and protect both sides. This section explains how to present the contract alongside proposals, how to walk clients through key clauses, how to handle changes professionally, and how to review and renew at term end.

To share the contract alongside your SEO proposal or plan

Send the contract together with your proposal or high-level SEO plan to show how everything fits. When you align the contract with a structured six-month plan, even if the plan lives as an internal PDF or template, it becomes easier for the client to see how timelines, deliverables, and payment terms connect across the project.

For example, you can describe discovery and keyword research in month 1, on-page optimization in months 1–2, content creation in months 2–4, and reporting in months 5–6. To make the connection clear, highlight where major proposal components appear in the contract. The scope should cover deliverables, milestones map to payment dates, and the reporting cadence ties to the reporting clause. Consider adding a simple one-page mapping sheet that links each proposal element to its contract clause to reduce back-and-forth and reinforce value.

To explain key clauses in plain language

Walk the client through the contract during a call or meeting and translate legal terms into business-friendly explanations. For example, when the contract mentions 'scope,' say: "these are the specific deliverables and work we will perform." When it mentions 'timeline,' clarify the schedule with concrete dates and milestones; 'payment terms' explain when invoices are due and what happens if a milestone slips.

Explain that the contract protects both sides, not just you. Confidentiality keeps client data safe, data ownership defines who owns the content and reports, and termination terms describe how either side can end the engagement in a fair way. By presenting these clauses in plain language, you build trust and show that the contract is a mutual protection plan that benefits the client as well as the provider.

To handle changes and extra requests professionally

Use the contract as a reference point when clients request work beyond the original scope—such as entering new markets, adding pages, or increasing content frequency. Start by comparing the request to the scope clause. If it clearly fits, discuss how milestones or fees might adjust; if it doesn’t, treat it as a change order.

Then follow a simple process: confirm the request in writing, assess the impact on scope, timeline, and budget, and issue a formal change order or updated contract for signature. Having a clear baseline makes it easier to negotiate adjustments without conflict and keeps both sides aligned on expectations as the engagement evolves. Tools like Hello Bonsai or DocuSign can help you manage the revised documents and signatures quickly.

To review and renew contracts after each term

At the end of a six-month SEO plan, schedule a short, focused review meeting with the client to discuss performance, upcoming priorities, and any changes to scope, pricing, or responsibilities. A 30- to 60-minute session is enough to keep momentum and reinforce partnership. This timing also signals that you’re committed to continual optimization and long-term results.

Use the session to refresh the contract template, incorporate lessons learned, and update clauses based on real-world experience. After the discussion, re-sign the updated contract and set the renewal timeline. Regular reviews help maintain alignment, encourage ongoing collaboration, and provide a clear path for scaling the relationship over time.

How Bonsai helps manage SEO services contract templates

In Bonsai, contract templates follow a clear, scalable structure. This section explains how you can build, store, and use an SEO services contract template within Bonsai’s unified workflow. For freelancers and small agencies, the benefits are clear: faster contract creation, consistent terms across clients, easier tracking of contract status, and automation that ties contracts to projects, time tracking, and invoices.

To create reusable SEO services contract templates

Start by creating a master SEO services contract in Bonsai and marking it as a reusable template. This master defines the standard terms you’ll use for every client, including core clauses and fields. Set the contract scope, responsibilities, payment terms, reporting cadence, and essential legal protections in one place. The goal is to have a solid base you can duplicate for new clients or for a new six-month SEO plan without missing anything.

Within the template, specify concrete deliverables such as an initial SEO audit, keyword research, on-page optimization, technical fixes, and monthly performance reports. Add clear responsibilities for both sides, including timelines and acceptance criteria. Define payment terms (upfront fee, monthly retainer, or milestone-based payments) and the reporting format and schedule. Include confidentiality, IP ownership, data protection, liability limits, and termination rights to keep the agreement robust.

By using a master contract and standardized language, you save onboarding time and reduce negotiation friction as you scale. You can still tailor client-specific details by editing only the variables while preserving the core structure and protections.

To track and manage SEO contracts in one place

Bonsai stores all SEO contracts centrally, so you can see what’s sent, viewed, or signed at a glance. Each contract lives in a client folder with version history, so you can pull the latest draft or an older revision if needed. You can quickly pull the latest version to confirm the exact scope, milestones, and timelines agreed. The client portal shows branded documents and lets the client review the terms before signing.

This single source of truth makes it easy to confirm what was agreed during a project, reference scope or timelines when questions arise, and manage renewals at the end of a six-month term. It also helps you prepare for scope changes or rate reviews by locating the original terms quickly. For renewals, Bonsai can highlight auto-renew options or prompt you to extend the contract.

Having a professional, branded experience for client reviews and signatures reduces back-and-forth emails and speeds up the signing process. You can attach the contract to related projects and invoices so everything stays linked in Bonsai.

To automate approvals, reminders, and downstream workflows

Bonsai automates many steps to keep contracts moving and tied to your project work.

• Auto-send contracts for e-signature and notify you when clients view or sign
• Trigger project creation, task lists, or a 6 month SEO plan once a contract is approved
• Generate invoices based on agreed payment terms (upfront fees, monthly retainers, or milestones)
• Schedule reminders for renewals, term ends, or rate reviews so you never miss a contract date
• Reduce manual data entry by reusing client details across contracts, projects, and invoices