What is a milestone sign-off?

A milestone sign-off is a short document where your client formally approves the work completed at a specific stage of the project. It's your written proof that they reviewed the work, were happy with it, and agreed to move to the next phase.

Without sign-offs, clients can claim at the end of a project that earlier stages weren't what they wanted - even if they seemed fine at the time.

When should you use one?

At every major stage of a project - after the brief is finalised, after concept presentations, after each design round, after development is complete, and before final launch or handover.

What's included

Milestone name and description - which stage is being signed off and what was delivered.

Deliverables reviewed - a list of the specific items the client is approving.

Feedback and amendments - space for the client to note any final comments or minor tweaks before approval.

Approval statement - a clear statement that the client approves the work and agrees to proceed to the next stage.

Payment trigger - if milestone payments are part of your agreement, this sign-off triggers the next invoice.

Date and signatures - both parties sign with the date, creating a clear record.