Mutual NDA Template

A mutual NDA lets both sides talk openly before deciding to work together. This template protects information either party shares while they explore a project. It covers what counts as confidential, what doesn't, how it may be used, how long the duty lasts, and that neither side has to go ahead.

  • 1. Purpose
  • 2. Confidential Information
  • 3. Exclusions
  • 4. Use and Protection
  • 5. Required Disclosure
  • 6. Term
  • 7. Return or Destruction
  • 8. No Obligation
  • 9. No License or Warranty
  • 10. Remedies
  • 11. General
  • Signatures from both parties
Free, no account needed to start. Not legal advice.

Use it before a discovery call or pitch where either side will share non-public information, such as plans, numbers, or customer details.

The full template

Words in brackets, like [Client Name], fill in automatically from your client's details when you use the template in Clientary.

In the editor, you can change any section or add your own. Once you send it, your client signs online from any device. Edit this template online

This Mutual Non-Disclosure Agreement is made on [Contract Date] between [Company Name] and [Client Name] (each a "Party").

1. Purpose

The Parties want to explore a possible business relationship, [describe it, for example: a website redesign project] (the "Purpose"), and may share confidential information to do so.

2. Confidential Information

"Confidential Information" is any non-public information one Party (the "Discloser") shares with the other (the "Recipient") about its business, such as plans, finances, customers, products, processes, or technology, whether shared in writing, verbally, or by access. It includes information marked as confidential, and information a reasonable person would understand to be confidential.

3. Exclusions

Confidential Information doesn't include information that:

  • Is or becomes public through no fault of the Recipient
  • The Recipient already knew, without a duty of confidentiality
  • The Recipient develops independently, without using the Discloser's information
  • The Recipient receives from someone else who is free to share it

4. Use and Protection

The Recipient will use Confidential Information only for the Purpose, and protect it with at least the care it uses for its own, and no less than reasonable care. The Recipient may share it only with its employees, contractors, and advisors who need it for the Purpose and are bound by similar duties of confidentiality, and is responsible for their compliance.

5. Required Disclosure

If a law, regulation, or court order requires the Recipient to disclose Confidential Information, it may disclose what is required, after giving the Discloser prompt notice where the law allows.

6. Term

This agreement covers information shared during the two years from the date above. The duty to keep it confidential continues for three years after that period ends, and for as long as any trade secret remains one.

7. Return or Destruction

On request, or when discussions end, the Recipient will return or destroy the Discloser's Confidential Information. Copies kept in routine backups, or required by law, may be kept, and remain confidential.

8. No Obligation

Neither Party has to enter into any further agreement or go ahead with the Purpose. Either Party may end discussions at any time.

9. No License or Warranty

Sharing information doesn't give the Recipient any ownership of it, or any license to it beyond the Purpose. Information is shared as is, without any promise that it's accurate or complete.

10. Remedies

Unauthorized use or disclosure may cause harm that money can't fully make up for. The Discloser may ask a court to stop it, in addition to any other remedy.

11. General

This agreement is governed by the laws of [state or country]. It is the entire agreement between the Parties about confidentiality for the Purpose, and may only be changed in writing. Neither Party may transfer it without the other's written consent.

By signing below, both Parties agree to these terms.

How to use this template in Clientary

  1. Edit it online. Change any section or add your own. No account needed.
  2. Preview it as your client will see it. Fill in who it's for and pick a design.
  3. Start your free trial to send it. Confirm you'll have it reviewed, since templates aren't legal advice, and your contract is waiting in your new account with your client's details filled in.
  4. Send it to be signed. Your client reviews and signs online, and you can see when it's viewed and signed.

Learn more about contracts and e-signatures in Clientary.

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between a mutual and a one-way NDA?

A one-way NDA protects information only one side shares. A mutual NDA protects both, which suits early conversations where each side may share plans, pricing, or processes.

How long should an NDA last?

Often one to three years for sharing information, with the duty to keep it confidential continuing for a few years after. Trade secrets are commonly protected for as long as they stay secret.

Is this mutual nda template free?

Yes. Read and copy the full text on this page, or edit it online and see it as your client will. When it's ready, start a free Clientary trial to send it or download it as a PDF.

Has a lawyer reviewed this template?

No. It's a general starting point written by Clientary, not legal advice, and it hasn't been reviewed by a lawyer for your situation or the laws where you and your client work. Have your own counsel review it before you use or sign it.

More templates for freelancers

Proposal · Freelancers

Freelance Project Proposal Template

Use it after a first call with a new client, for a defined project with a clear start and finish.

Contract · Freelancers

Freelance Contract Template

Use it for any project with a new client, alongside the proposal or quote that describes the work.

Contract · Freelancers

Freelance Writing Contract Template

Use it when a publication, agency, or business commissions articles, blog posts, or other written content from you.

Invoice · Freelancers

Freelance Invoice Template

Use it when you hand off a project, or adapt it to bill a deposit, a milestone, or hours worked each month.

Estimate · Freelancers

Freelance Project Estimate Template

Use it when a client asks what a project would cost, before you send a full proposal or contract.