The Business Side of Copywriting: Contracts, Pricing, and Getting Paid

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Freelance copywriting isn’t just about crafting compelling messages—it’s also about running a profitable business. Without the right pricing strategy, airtight contracts, and efficient payment processes, you could end up undercharging, dealing with nightmare clients, or struggling to get paid on time.

In this guide, we’ll cover how to price your services, the essential elements of a solid contract, how to handle pricing objections, and how to use Skool to create premium packages and retainers that ensure long-term income.

How to Price Your Copywriting Services

One of the biggest mistakes freelancers make is guessing their rates instead of structuring them strategically. There are three main ways to price your services:

1. Hourly Pricing

Pros: Simple, predictable income for time spent.

Cons: Limits earnings potential and doesn’t reward efficiency.

Best for: Beginners who are still learning project scopes.

Industry Standards:

Entry-Level: $25–$50 per hour

Mid-Level: $75–$150 per hour

Advanced: $200+ per hour

2. Per Project Pricing

Pros: More control over income, rewards efficiency.

Cons: Requires experience to estimate accurately.

Best for: Freelancers who want consistent, high-paying projects.

Example Pricing:

Website Copy: $1,500–$5,000

Email Sequences: $500–$2,500

Sales Pages: $2,000–$10,000+

3. Retainer Pricing (The Best for Long-Term Income!)

Pros: Predictable income, stable client relationships.

Cons: Requires strong client management skills.

Best for: Copywriters ready to scale beyond one-off gigs.

Example Retainer Packages:

Monthly blog posts + email marketing: $2,500/month

Sales page optimization + launch copy: $5,000/month

Complete content marketing strategy: $7,500/month

The Importance of Contracts (And What Clauses to Include)

Freelance copywriters must use contracts to protect themselves. Here’s what to include:

1. Payment Terms

Deposit requirement: 50% upfront, 50% upon completion.

Late payment fees: Specify a percentage penalty for overdue invoices.

2. Scope of Work

Clearly define deliverables, timelines, and revision limits.

Avoid scope creep by outlining additional fees for extra work.

3. Intellectual Property & Copyright Ownership

State when ownership transfers (e.g., after final payment is received).

Specify whether you retain the right to use the work in your portfolio.

4. Termination Clause

Protect yourself with a cancellation policy.

Specify a non-refundable deposit to compensate for lost time.

How to Handle Client Objections to Pricing

Even experienced copywriters face pushback on rates. Here’s how to respond to common objections:

Objection: "That’s too expensive!"

Response: “I understand budget concerns! My clients see increased conversions that far outweigh the investment. Would you like to see case studies?”

Objection: "Can we pay after the work is done?"

Response: “To keep things fair, I require a deposit upfront. This ensures commitment on both ends.”

Objection: "We can get it cheaper elsewhere."

Response: “You definitely can, but I focus on quality and results. If ROI matters more than cost, I’d love to help.”

How to Use Skool to Offer Premium Packages and Retainers

Skool is one of the best platforms for copywriters looking to transition from one-off projects to long-term revenue streams.

1. Build a Premium Skool Community

Offer monthly memberships where clients get access to exclusive copywriting insights.

Host Q&A sessions, training, and private feedback calls.

2. Sell High-Value Retainer Packages

Offer monthly consulting within your Skool community.

Provide ongoing copy critiques and strategy calls.

3. Automate Lead Generation

Clients who engage with your content see your expertise firsthand.

Instead of chasing leads, let them come to you inside your community.

Want to see how this works? Join Patrice’s Copywriting Community on Skool to learn how copywriters are using Skool to build premium businesses.

Final Thoughts: Running Your Copywriting Business Like a Pro

Mastering contracts, pricing, and client management will set you apart from struggling freelancers. If you want to scale beyond one-off projects and inconsistent income, focus on retainers, premium packages, and community-driven models like Skool.

Ready to take your business to the next level? Join Patrice’s Copywriting Community on Skool and start building a sustainable, high-income copywriting business today.