Hire Freelancers. Own the Code. Avoid the Audit.
Download the 2026 Master Independent Contractor Agreement (MICA).
Includes "Work Made for Hire," AI Ownership, and SOW Templates.
Stop using "Consulting Agreements" you found on Google.
Hiring a freelancer seems simple, but it carries two massive risks for startups:
IP Theft: Without a "Work Made for Hire" clause, the freelancer legally owns the copyright to the code or designs they create for you.
IRS Misclassification: If your contract looks like an employment contract, you risk massive fines for unpaid payroll taxes.
The Legal Attorney MICA Kit is the "Iron Dome" for your freelance relationships. It is drafted specifically for US-based startups hiring US-based contractors, ensuring you own the IP and stay on the right side of the IRS.
Why this is the "2026 Edition":
1. Generative AI Ownership Rights
Freelancers today use AI tools like ChatGPT and Copilot.
You Own the Output: Our contract specifically assigns ownership of AI-generated code/content to your Company.
Data Security: Explicitly prohibits freelancers from pasting your private data into public/non-secure AI models.
2. The "Master" Structure (Sign Once, Hire Forever)
Stop sending a new 10-page contract for every small task.
The Framework: You sign the "Master Agreement" once. It covers all legal liabilities (Confidentiality, IP, Indemnification).
The SOW: For every new project, you just sign a simple 1-page Statement of Work. It saves time and legal fees.
3. The "Anti-Employee" Shield
The IRS uses a "20-Factor Test" to decide if someone is an employee.
Autonomy Clauses: Our text explicitly grants the contractor control over how and where they work (a key factor in passing the IRS test).
No Benefits: Clearly waives rights to health insurance and 401(k), protecting you from future claims.
What You Get Inside the Kit:
1. The Master Services Agreement (Word)
Perpetual Confidentiality: Protects your trade secrets forever.
Indemnification: If the freelancer steals copyrighted images and gives them to you, they pay the lawsuit, not you.
Non-Solicitation: Prevents the freelancer from trying to poach your employees or clients.
2. The Statement of Work (SOW) Template
The "Order Form" for your projects.
Includes fields for Milestones, Deadlines, and Deliverables.
Pre-formatted for Hourly, Flat Fee, or Retainer billing.
3. The Founder’s Implementation Guide (PDF)
The Compliance Test: A 3-step checklist to ensure you aren't accidentally hiring an employee.
Tax Guide: Simple instructions on collecting W-9s and filing 1099s.
Scale Your Team Safely.
Today's Price: $99 | Save over 30% off the $145 retail price.
(One-time payment. Instant Download. Fully Editable.)
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use this for International Contractors?
This contract is drafted for US Law (Delaware/US Courts). While the IP principles are universal, international hiring often requires a local "Employer of Record" (EOR) service to handle taxes in that specific country. For US-based freelancers, this is perfect.
2. Does this include a Non-Compete?
No. As of 2025, non-competes are largely unenforceable for contractors. Instead, we use a strict Confidentiality and Non-Solicitation clause. They can work for your competitors, but they cannot use your secrets to help them.
3. What is a "Work Made for Hire"?
This is a specific US Copyright term. It means that even though the freelancer created the work, the law treats your company as the original author. Without this phrase, you do not own the full copyright.
4. Can I modify the SOW?
Yes! The SOW is designed to be edited. You can write whatever you want in the "Description of Services" section without worrying about breaking the legal protections in the Master Agreement.
Disclaimer: Legal Attorney provides templates for organizational purp
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