In freelancing, 'maximum hours' refers to a contractual limit on the number of hours you can work for a client in a given period, typically a week. It's a key term for managing workload and expectations.
What is Maximum hours?
Maximum hours is a clause in a freelance contract that sets a cap on the total hours you can bill a client for within a specific timeframe, like a week or month. It defines the upper limit of the agreed-upon workload, preventing scope creep and ensuring the project stays within its original budget and timeline.
Why is this important?
This limit is crucial for protecting your time and income. It prevents clients from expecting unlimited work for a fixed price or rate. It helps you manage multiple clients, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and ensures project profitability by clearly defining the scope of your engagement.
How does it work?
You and the client agree on a maximum number of billable hours per week in your contract. You track your time against this cap. If you approach the limit, you typically need to request approval for additional hours, which may be billed at a different rate or require a new agreement.
Pros and cons
The pros include clear boundaries, predictable income, and protection from endless revisions. The cons can be limiting if a project genuinely needs more time, and it requires diligent time tracking. It may also cap your earnings if you cannot renegotiate for extra work.
Conclusion
Understanding and negotiating maximum hours is a fundamental skill for freelancers. It turns vague agreements into professional, manageable engagements. Always clarify this term before starting work to safeguard your schedule and ensure fair compensation for your effort.
Ready to freelance?
Download the HFS Freelancers app and discover flexible shifts in your area. Or explore more terms in our knowledge base.
