The number on a quote is the start of the price, not the price for the whole arrangement. Many providers write a rate that holds for a period and then reserve the right to change it. Before you sign, find that right, write down its exact terms, and decide whether you can live with them.

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Step 1: Find the sentence

Search the contract and any attached rate sheet for these words: rate, fee, increase, adjust, change, review, notice. A rate change clause often sits in a billing section, not in a section called pricing. If you find no such sentence, do not assume the rate is fixed. Ask the provider to point you to the line that says it is.

Write the section number here: ____________

Step 2: Answer these four questions in writing

  1. How often can the rate change? Look for a window such as once a year or at renewal. Write it here: ____________
  2. How many days of notice do you get before a new rate takes effect? Write the number: ______
  3. Who decides the new rate? The provider alone, or both sides by written agreement? Write the answer: ____________
  4. Does a change apply to hours already scheduled, or only to future hours? Write the answer: ____________

Step 3: Listen for the answers that matter

A workable answer names a notice period, a limit on how often the rate can change, and who must agree. Be careful with answers like rates go up as costs go up, with no number, no notice, and no limit. Ask the provider to put the same answer in the contract. If the answer is not on paper, it is not part of the deal.

Step 4: Compare the quote with the bill you will get

Ask for a sample invoice that uses your planned hours. Compare the rate on that invoice to the rate on the quote. If they do not match, find out why before you sign.

Quote rate: ______ Invoice rate: ______

Signs to stop and ask again

  • The contract lets the provider change the rate at any time without written notice.
  • The contract gives you no choice but to accept the new rate.
  • The provider says the rate clause does not really apply to your case. Ask for that answer in writing before you decide.

What to write down before you sign

Keep one page with the starting rate, the change window, the notice days, and the name of the person who will send any change in writing. Keep that page with the signed contract.

For how this desk checks its claims, see How We Write the Sheets.