Updated June 12, 2023
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An engagement letter outlines the scope of work and payment to be provided by a client for a third-party consultant. An engagement letter is used commonly with professional services such as accountants (CPAs), attorneys, and real estate agents to properly identify the relationship with the client often required under state law.
In addition, the letter is legally binding and requires payment by the client upon completion of the services.
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Table of Contents |
What is an Engagement Letter?
An engagement letter binds a client and a service provider to an agreed-upon arrangement provided in exchange for payment. The services are specifically outlined including the amounts due, either per hour ($/hr) or for the entire scope of work. Both parties shall be contractually obligated to perform their duties.
What is a Retainer?
A retainer is a payment made as an advance on services that are to be completed. A retainer is often made part of the engagement letter as security and signifies the client’s commitment.
Sample
ENGAGEMENT LETTER
I. THE PARTIES. This Engagement Letter (“Letter”), dated on [DATE], was requested by [NAME] with a mailing address of [ADDRESS], (“Client”) and agrees to hire Service Provider: [NAME] with a mailing address of [ADDRESS] (“Service Provider”).
II. SERVICES PROVIDED. The Service Provider is required to provide the following: [SERVICES] hereinafter known as the “Services.”
III. FEES. For the Services, the Client shall pay the Service Provider: (check one)
☐ – $[AMOUNT] / Hour.
☐ – $[AMOUNT] as a total amount for the Services.
☐ – Other: [AMOUNT]
In addition, the Client may be charged for any administrative fees, filings, or any other costs directly or indirectly related to the Services.
IV. RETAINER. As part of this Letter, the Client agrees: (check one)
☐ – A Retainer Payment is Required. The amount shall be $[AMOUNT] due and payable at the time of signature. The Retainer Payment shall be: (check one)
☐ – Refundable
☐ – Non-Refundable
☐ – A Retainer Payment is Not Required.
V. PRIMARY CONTACT (CLIENT). The primary contact for the Client regarding the Services mentioned in this Letter shall be:
Individual’s Name: [NAME]
Phone: [NUMBER]
E-Mail: [ADDRESS]
VI. TERMINATION. The Services shall terminate: (check one)
☐ – Upon completion of the Services.
☐ – On the end date of [DATE]
☐ – Written notice by either party of [NUMBER] day(s).
☐ – Other. [DETAILS]
The Client shall be required to provide accurate information to the Service Provider in a timely manner. If any information produced by the Client is not accurate the Service Provider shall be held harmless from any legal, financial, or other liability as a result of such information.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Client and Service Provider agree to the terms and conditions contained in this Letter.
Client’s Signature [SIGNATURE] Date [DATE]
Service Provider’s Signature [SIGNATURE] Date [DATE]