Is termination for convenience normal in a consulting agreement?

A client-only termination-for-convenience clause with no kill fee is a red flag in a consulting agreement. Make it mutual, require 2-4 weeks' notice, and tie client convenience termination to payment for work done plus a cancellation fee.

What’s market-standard

Either party may terminate for convenience on 14-30 days' written notice. On client termination for convenience, the client pays for all work performed plus a cancellation fee (see kill fee). Amounts already paid are non-refundable.

Warning signs

• Only the client may terminate for convenience
• Notice period of 0-3 days
• On termination the client owes only for 'accepted' deliverables
• No cancellation fee tied to convenience termination
• Client may terminate and still demand delivery of in-progress work

Wording you can send

Either party may terminate this Agreement for convenience on 20 days' written notice. On termination by the Client for convenience, the Client shall pay all fees for work performed through the effective date plus the cancellation fee in Section X. Sums already paid are non-refundable.

What it means for you

The right to end the contract for any reason on notice. When only the client has it, and there is no kill fee, the client can cancel the day before final delivery and owe very little.

Not legal advice. Gig Clause is software, not a law firm or a professional service, no attorney reviews, drafts, or is otherwise involved in anything it produces. It automatically highlights common contract issues and suggests negotiation language. Using it does not create an attorney-client relationship. For decisions with significant financial or legal consequences, consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction. Clause standards vary by industry and location and change over time.