When you need a proposal
Send a proposal after a discovery call, when the client has asked "what would this cost?". It shows you understood the problem, sets out exactly what is included, and gives a price the client can say yes to.
A good proposal also prevents scope creep later: anything not listed in the scope of work is clearly extra. Once the client signs it, the proposal works as a simple agreement for the project.
What this proposal includes
- Who it is for, who it is from and the date.
- An overview of the client's goals.
- The scope of work, one item per line.
- What is not included, so there are no surprises.
- A timeline.
- A price table with a total in any currency.
- Payment terms and how long the proposal is valid.
- An acceptance block for signatures.
How to use the Proposal Generator
- Fill in your details, the client and the project name.
- Write a short overview of the client's goals.
- List the scope of work and what is not included.
- Add each price line and pick the currency and payment terms.
- Check the preview, download the PDF and send it for signature.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a proposal and a quote?
A quote is mainly a price list. A proposal explains the client's goals, the scope of work and the timeline as well as the price, so it is better for larger or custom projects.
What should a project proposal include?
An overview of the goals, a clear scope of work, what is not included, deliverables, a timeline, pricing, payment terms, how long the offer is valid and a way for the client to accept.
Is a signed proposal legally binding?
Once both sides sign it, a proposal with a clear scope and price can work as an agreement, but rules differ from country to country. This is a template for general use, not legal advice. For larger projects, consider a full freelance contract as well.
Can I use any currency?
Yes. Pick the currency from the list and every price line and the total are shown in it.
Do you store what I type?
No. The proposal is built entirely in your browser. Your draft is saved only in this browser on this device so a refresh does not lose it. We measure visits and downloads with analytics tools, which never see what you type.
Can my client sign the proposal online?
Yes. Download the PDF for free, or use the "Send this for e-signature" button to send it with CloveDesk and get a signed copy with an audit trail.
Made for freelancers and small teams
See how CloveDesk helps:
Get your proposal signed online
CloveDesk sends documents for e-signature, keeps a full audit trail and gives each client a portal for quotes, invoices and files.
Send this for e-signatureTemplate for general use, not legal advice. CloveDesk is not a law firm and does not give legal advice. Laws differ between countries and situations; for anything important, ask a qualified lawyer.