<b>New to deals? Start here: the termination clause</b>

<b>New to deals? Start here: the termination clause</b>

The termination clause says how either side can end the deal early. People sign without reading it, then get surprised.

Why it matters: a lopsided version lets the brand walk away free anytime, while binding <i>you</i> to keep performing. You want it balanced, with pay for work already done.

Example: clause says "brand may terminate at any time with no payment owed." You filmed, you edited — and they owe you nothing. That's the version to fix.

Your move: look for two things — does the brand pay for work completed before they cancel (a kill fee), and can <i>you</i> exit too if they ghost or change the brief? If only their side is protected, ask to make it mutual.