Skip to content
ScopeShield

Client script library

How to Tell a Client Extra Work Costs More

Connect the added fee to the changed work and its impact, then ask for explicit approval before starting.

By ScopeShieldPublished Content reviewed Methodology & product disclosure

Direct answer

What you need to know

Connect the added fee to the changed work and its impact, then ask for explicit approval before starting.

Definition: An extra-work fee is the price for work that was not included in the approved commercial scope.

Verify the trigger against the agreement

An extra-work fee is the price for work that was not included in the approved commercial scope.

  • The request is useful but not included
  • Added work creates review or QA time
  • A retainer exceeds its defined capacity

Complete the approval record

Use the sample below for the stated request, not as a substitute for checking what the agreement already includes. Stay factual and avoid blame.

  • Replace placeholders with facts from the approved project
  • State fee and timing impact together
  • Name the person or reply that counts as approval
  • Record approval before changing the work plan

Copy-and-customize wording

Use this as a practical starting point. Replace every placeholder with a fact from the approved project.

Free editable sample

No purchase or email required.

That addition is outside the current scope. I can include it for [fee], including the required [production/review/testing], with the updated delivery date of [date]. Reply “approved” and I’ll update the plan.

How to apply it

  1. Replace placeholders with facts from the approved project
  2. State fee and timing impact together
  3. Name the person or reply that counts as approval
  4. Record approval before changing the work plan

Use with care

  • Stay factual and avoid blame
  • Quote one clear fee and schedule outcome
  • Do not start while approval is ambiguous

Frequently asked questions

When should I use this wording?
Connect the added fee to the changed work and its impact, then ask for explicit approval before starting.
Is this legal advice?
No. This is practical business wording, not legal advice. Adapt it to your agreement and ask a qualified lawyer about legal requirements in your jurisdiction.

Continue with the next decision

ScopeShield

$39 · instant access