Cold Email Templates

Email Templates for Freelancers

Professional emails that win projects, set clear expectations, keep clients updated on progress, and ensure you get paid on time.

As a freelancer, every email you send is a reflection of your professionalism. From the proposal that wins the project to the invoice reminder that gets you paid, clear and confident communication builds trust and keeps your business running smoothly.

Ready-to-Use Templates

Copy these templates and customize them for your needs. Each includes HTML and plain text versions.

Project Proposal
Send a detailed project proposal after an initial conversation with a potential client
General use
Subject Line

Proposal: {{projectName}} — {{freelancerName}}

Preview Text

Project scope, timeline, investment, and next steps to get started.

Personalization Variables:
Email Preview
Client Onboarding
Welcome a new client after they've signed the contract and paid the deposit
General use
Subject Line

Welcome aboard, {{clientName}} — let's kick off {{projectName}}

Preview Text

Everything you need to know for a smooth project start.

Personalization Variables:
Email Preview
Milestone Update
Notify the client that a project milestone has been completed and share deliverables
General use
Subject Line

{{projectName}} update: {{milestoneName}} is complete

Preview Text

Here's what was delivered, what's next, and anything I need from you.

Personalization Variables:
Email Preview
Invoice Follow-Up
Remind a client about an unpaid invoice that's approaching or past its due date
General use
Subject Line

Friendly reminder: Invoice #{{invoiceNumber}} is {{invoiceStatus}}

Preview Text

A quick reminder about your outstanding invoice with payment details.

Personalization Variables:
Email Preview

Best Practices

Send proposals within 24 hours — speed wins projects

Include a clear scope of work to prevent scope creep

Set payment terms upfront in the proposal and contract

Send milestone updates proactively, even when the client doesn't ask

Keep invoice reminders friendly and professional, never aggressive

Always include a direct payment link to reduce friction

Common Mistakes

Sending vague proposals without detailed scope or pricing

Waiting too long to follow up on overdue invoices

Not setting expectations about communication and revisions upfront

Sending milestone updates with no context about what's next

Using an overly formal or corporate tone when your brand is casual

Forgetting to include payment terms in the proposal

Subject Line Examples

Timing & Performance

Best Days
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
Best Times
9:00 AM, 2:00 PM
Open Rate
25-35%
Click Rate
3-5%

Personalization Tips

Freelance success depends as much on communication as it does on the quality of your work. Clients choose freelancers who respond quickly, set clear expectations, and keep them informed throughout the project. These templates cover the four most critical touchpoints: winning the project, kicking it off, showing progress, and getting paid.

Every template is designed to look professional while staying personal. The proposal includes a detailed scope and pricing breakdown that prevents misunderstandings. The onboarding email sets the project up for success by defining what you need from the client and how you'll communicate. Milestone updates keep clients confident that their investment is progressing. And invoice follow-ups ensure you get paid without any awkwardness.

Whether you're a writer, designer, developer, or consultant, these templates adapt to any freelance business. Customize the deliverables, timelines, and payment terms to match your services, and let Sequenzy handle the sending so you can focus on delivering great work.

Build Beautiful Email Sequences for Your SaaS

Sequenzy helps SaaS founders create automated email sequences that convert. From onboarding to retention - all in one platform.

AI email generation
Sequence builder
Stripe integration
Detailed analytics
Try Sequenzy Free

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Templates