Sample At-Will Statements
On employment applications, at-will statements:
- Appear immediately above the signature line for the applicant.
- Indicate to all applicants that this section should be read carefully prior to signing and if the applicant has any questions concerning the material, insist that the applicant have those questions answered to the applicant's satisfaction prior to signing the application.
- If there are individuals within your company that have the power to contract with an individual for employment, state that fact and list the title(s) of those individuals. If no one in your company has that ability, be sure to state so on the application.
- Although the statement is a "legal" clause and generally is drafted by lawyers, make sure it is clearly understandable by the majority of individuals who will complete the application.
- Consider having the statement in bold print to emphasize it.
- Make sure that the language used in the statement is not only clear, legally correct and understandable but that the language reflects how you wish your company to be viewed and consistent with the language reflective of the company culture.
General at-will disclaimer, not necessarily tied to an employee handbook:
Employment at our organization is at-will for an indefinite period of time, unless terminated by either our organization or you. Either our organization or you may terminate employment at any time with or without cause. No written or oral representation by our organization personnel, other than the director of personnel, is intended to create a contract of employment. No employment practice of our organization is intended to create a contract of employment.
At-will disclaimer and acknowledgement page:
We have prepared this handbook as a guide for policies, benefits and general information which should assist you during your employment. However, neither this handbook, nor any other company communication or practice, creates an employment contract. The company reserves the right to make changes in content or application of its policies as it deems appropriate, and these changes may be implemented, even if they have not been communicated, reprinted, or substituted in this handbook. It is also understood that nothing in this handbook or any other policy or communication changes the fact that employment is at-will for an indefinite period unless terminated at any time by you or your company.
I understand that no employee or representative of the company, other than the President, has any authority to enter into an employment contract or to change the at-will employment relationship, or to make any agreement contrary to the foregoing. I acknowledge receipt of the employee handbook, and understand that my continued employment constitutes acceptance of any changes that may be made in content or application of the handbook.
A handbook statement:
This handbook outlines what (company name) believes is important. All standards of conduct apply to all employees. Our policies are designed to create a friendly and efficient environment and encourage your personal productivity and opportunity.
However, this handbook is only an introduction and guide. Neither this handbook nor references to other documents is meant to establish an employment contract or agreement. Nothing in this handbook is intended to imply that there is permanent or guaranteed employment for anyone. Because things change, we will amend this book over time. As this handbook is changed, we will attempt to provide you with a revised copy.
Employee acknowledgment statement
I have read (Title). I understand the contents. I agree that it is a general guide. I know that the handbook does not create a contract or agreement for employment. I know that my employment is not for a given period of time; my employment and compensation can stop with or without formal or informal notice at any time at the option of (Company name) or myself.
I know that no one other than (Title) has the authority to create an employment agreement or contract.
Print name
Date
Employee signature
Reprinted with permission. © CCH
Sample At-Will Statements. On employment applications, at-will statements: ...
Sample At-Will Statements
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