Hello! I'm not sure if this is the right channel- but I had a question abt game deving in general. When commissioning someone for a project, where they make X service and get Y payment after, is it normal to sign a contract of agreement and fill out your full name, dob, address, and signature? Even if it's for a small $200-300 project that you'd only get once payment is sent on your end first?
#How normal are contracts for small commissions?
tranquil harbor
hidden loom
Technically it's the right thing to do whenever money is being exchanged, yes. Whether it's a bit overkill for something as low as a few hundred, really depends on your relationship with the other party.
tranquil harbor
Technically it's the right thing to do whenever money is being exchanged, yes. W...
Ahh I see. A dev I was talking to is from Hungary, I'm not sure if there's a local law that requires that info. As I was told it was for "tax purposes" 😅 I just met him a few days ago, but he does have a full portfolio and everything
hidden loom
It is for tax purposes yeah
If it's being paid out through his company (even sole proprietor), there needs to be a record of these things when filing.
tranquil harbor
If it's being paid out through his company (even sole proprietor), there needs t...
Hmm, even if he has no company and is just a freelance dev?
cyan kelp
Hmm, even if he has no company and is just a freelance dev?
Usually, you need to declare ANY source of income.
hidden loom
If he's a freelance dev, he has a business account. He's his own company.
tranquil harbor
Gotchya, thanks so much! Hiring a dev for the 1st time, so I was curious as to why I needed to give that info for a small scale project 😭
south latch
Imo the only time it's not overkill is if you're happy losing that money, like it's "buy me a beer" money between friends. Every other time you should have a contract, which doesn't need to be complicated, you just need the quote and deliverables listed
dusk girder
Hmm, even if he has no company and is just a freelance dev?
In the US at least, when you're a freelance dev and contracting services, you are the company, should register your business, file taxes etc. It's just a sole proprietorship. Registering a business in the states is really simple usually and can be done online.
tropic igloo
contracts might be also important for NDA, and assets exclusivity.
vocal tapir
Paperwork is one of the (many) reasons I don't like to take on small projects. But yes, even if it's 50 bucks, they may want a proper contract in place.
Technically it can protect you as much as them. I only do work if there is a contract.
But, even with a contract, it only matters if you have the ability to enforce it. If it's for 300 bucks, you probably aren't going to go after them for it - and they may know that.
Generally though, them wanting a contract is a good sign, and also means you may get future work.
Check the clauses carefully though, some unscrupulous types will use those clauses to avoid payment as well.