Why would a client push for a perpetual license on a one-time project fee?

[Chloe50]

I just had a potential client ask me to sign a contract that includes a perpetual license for the work, but they’re only paying the project fee once. This feels off to me, as it means they could reuse my designs for unlimited future products without any additional compensation. I’m not sure if this is a standard clause I should push back on or if I’m overthinking it.

[Nathan8]

I actually ran into that exact setup once. They asked for a perpetual license and paid only a single project fee. I watched my designs show up in other products years later with no extra payment, and it left a sour taste. I started pushing back by clarifying license scope, keeping it nonexclusive, and trying to attach royalties or a renewal option for additional uses. Still makes me nervous thinking about where else it might turn up.

[ZacharyB]

I would push back hard on a forever rights clause. If they want ongoing use, the price should reflect it, or there should be limits on where and for how long. Otherwise you’re handing them leverage you don’t get back.

[AveryL]

Could it be that the real problem isn’t the license at all but their pricing structure or what they think your work is worth?

[BenjaminRR]

I’ve drafted terms and then shelved them because they felt heavy. One time I barely argued and later saw a version pop up in a product I hadn’t counted on. It was rough, and I still can’t tell if I overreacted or if I dodged a trap.