Which resource should I use next?

Use the linked primary resource for the actual artifact or decision framework. This article addresses the narrower task: reset an informal approval habit.

Client Adds Work Without Approving Fees: Reset the Decision Gate

Illustrative case — not a customer result

Illustrative case: a client sends small additions in chat, and the freelancer has routinely completed them before discussing cost. The next message should change the process prospectively rather than assert that past silence created a payment obligation. Summarize pending requests and ask which should be estimated.

Apply the decision

List pending additions without combining them with approved tasks
Explain that estimates precede extra work from now on
Confirm the original plan if the client declines additions

Boundary and limitations

A new process does not retroactively approve old work or create charges the client never accepted.

Message for this situation

Free editable sample

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I have noted the additions. I will estimate their fee and delivery impact before starting; meanwhile, the approved deliverables remain on the current plan.

Decision record to complete

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Pending request: [complete for this project]
original scope reference: [complete for this project]
estimate needed: [complete for this project]
client choice: [complete for this project]
approval evidence: [complete for this project]

Frequently asked questions

Which resource should I use next?: Use the linked primary resource for the actual artifact or decision framework. This article addresses the narrower task: reset an informal approval habit.
What should I avoid assuming?: A new process does not retroactively approve old work or create charges the client never accepted.

Continue with the next decision

Client script library

How to Tell a Client a Request Is Out of Scope

Tell the client what the approved scope covers, identify the added request neutrally, and offer a priced or swapped next step instead of a blunt refusal.

Next step

Stop Scope Creep

Diagnose the request before you change the project.

Free editable artifact

Freelance Change Order Form Template

A freelance change-order form records the original agreement, requested difference, added and removed work, price adjustment, revised milestones, dependencies, and authorized approval. Give each change an identifier so the client can approve a specific version.