How do I get out of my talent management contract?

The clauses that decide whether you can leave

This Agreement shall have an initial term of one (1) year and shall automatically renew for successive one-year terms unless either party provides written notice of non-renewal at least sixty (60) days prior to the expiration of the then-current term.

Neither party may terminate this Agreement for convenience during the Term.

Artist may terminate this Agreement upon thirty (30) days' written notice if Manager fails to procure engagements generating at least $[amount] in gross income during any six-month period.

The first clause is the trap most creators hit: the contract quietly rolls over for another full year because nobody sent notice in a short window months before the end date. The second means there's no "I just want out" option during the term. The third is the one you want: a performance out that lets you leave if the manager doesn't bring in work.

Step by step

• Find the start date, the term length and the renewal clause. Work out the exact last day you can send notice, and put it in your calendar.
• Read the notice clause: it usually says how notice must be sent (email, letter, a specific address). Follow it exactly.
• Look for any early exit: performance minimums, a key-person clause (you can leave if your specific manager leaves the agency), or termination for breach.
• Check what happens after you leave: post-term commission, who keeps collecting payments on live deals, and whether you must hand over account access.
• Send notice in writing, keep a copy, and ask for written confirmation it was received.
• Change passwords and remove manager access to your social and email accounts once the term actually ends.

If there's no way out in the contract

Many managers will agree to end things early rather than keep an unhappy client. A short, polite message asking for a mutual termination, with a clear end date and an agreed list of deals they'll still be paid on, often works. Get any agreement in writing.

If the manager has broken the contract (not paying you what you're owed, signing deals without your approval, missing payments), that can change your options. That's the point to talk to an entertainment lawyer, since the rules vary by state and country.

Red flags to fix before signing the next one

• Auto-renewal with a notice window you'd never remember.
• "No termination for convenience" on a multi-year term.
• No performance minimum or trial period.
• A long post-term commission on everything signed during the term.
• Notice that must be sent by mail to an address that isn't in the contract.

What to send the brand

Copy, adjust the numbers, and send. Brands expect pushback on these; asking doesn't make you difficult.

Questions

Related guides

• What to check before signing with a talent manager or brand-deal agency
• Does my manager get commission after I leave? (Sunset clauses)
• Should my manager or agency collect my brand deal payments?