How to Politely Decline a Freelance Project (Email Templates)

Saying no keeps your calendar sane. These scripts decline without burning the bridge, and even turn a no into goodwill.

Declining a project politely

Keep the door open.

Subject: Re: [Project]

Hi [Name],

Thanks for thinking of me — this looks like a great project. I'm fully booked through [date], so I wouldn't be able to give it the attention it deserves right now.

If your timeline is flexible, I'd love to revisit. Either way, best of luck with it.

Thanks,
[You]

Declining but referring someone

Generosity that comes back around.

Subject: Re: [Project]

Hi [Name],

I'm not the right fit for this one [reason], but I don't want to leave you stuck. [Referral name] does excellent work in exactly this area — here's how to reach them: [contact], and feel free to say I sent you.

Hope it goes well,
[You]

Declining unpaid "exposure" work

Firm, friendly, final.

Subject: Re: [the ask]

Hi [Name],

Thanks for reaching out. I only take on paid projects, so exposure or revenue-share isn't something I can do right now.

If budget frees up, I'd be glad to talk. My rate for this kind of work starts at [$amount].

Best,
[You]

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