Brand Deal Contracts: What to Check Before You Sign
6 min read
A contract protects you as much as the brand. You don't need to be a lawyer to read one — but you should know what to look for so you don't get surprised later. Here are the key terms to check before you sign.
The checklist
- Deliverables — exactly what you're making (formats, how many, where it posts) so "a few posts" can't quietly become ten.
- Payment — how much, when, and how. Watch for long payment windows like "net 60" and whether there's a deposit.
- Usage rights — can the brand reuse your content as ads or on their channels, for how long, and is that paid for? Wide usage should cost more.
- Exclusivity — are you barred from working with competitors, for how long, and is that compensated?
- Approval & revisions — how many rounds of edits, and who has final say on the post.
- Kill fee — what you're paid if the brand cancels after you've started work.
Common red flags
Be cautious with perpetual (forever) usage rights for a one-off fee, broad exclusivity with no extra pay, payment only "after the post performs," or vague deliverables. It's fine to ask for changes — professional brands expect it.
This is general information, not legal advice. For a contract that matters, consider having a qualified professional review it. Keeping every deal's terms in one place — as you can with a deal tracker — makes it easier to spot patterns and remember what you agreed to.
Frequently asked questions
What should I check in a brand deal contract?
Deliverables, payment amount and timing, usage rights, exclusivity, the number of revision rounds and who approves, and any kill fee if the brand cancels. Make sure each is written down clearly rather than left vague.
What are usage rights in a creator contract?
Usage rights define whether and how the brand can reuse your content — for example as paid ads or on their own channels — and for how long. Broad or long-term usage is extra value, so it should come with extra pay.
Is 'net 60' payment normal for brand deals?
Longer payment windows like net 30 or net 60 are common with larger brands, but you can negotiate shorter terms or a deposit. Always confirm the payment timing in writing before you start.
Put this into practice with Creatrne
Creatrne helps creators draft personalized pitch proposals, build a verified media kit, and track every brand conversation in one place. You stay in control — Creatrne never messages brands for you.
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