A short settlement agreement deadline can make an offer feel urgent. Before deciding whether to sign, check what deadline your employer has set, whether you have the complete written agreement and when you can obtain independent advice.
Frederick Solicitors advises employees by phone and online. Tell us your deadline when you contact us so we can confirm availability and identify the documents needed for your review.
What does the Acas guidance say?
The Acas Code recommends, as a general rule, allowing at least 10 calendar days to consider the proposed formal written terms and obtain independent advice, unless the parties agree otherwise. What is reasonable depends on the circumstances. This is guidance about considering the offer, not a universal statutory signing deadline.
If you have only received a verbal figure or an outline email, ask for the full agreement and a breakdown of the proposed payments. Your adviser needs to see the obligations as well as the amount offered.
Can you ask for more time?
Yes. Explain why you need an extension and propose a realistic date. For example, you may be waiting for an advice appointment, missing documents or clarification of a payment. Ask your employer to confirm any extension in writing. Do not assume that asking automatically changes the existing deadline.
If a disability affects your ability to consider the offer or obtain advice, tell your adviser. Acas explains that reasonable adjustments may include allowing additional time.
Does a same-day appointment mean you must sign that day?
No. An available appointment is an opportunity to receive advice, not an obligation to accept the agreement. Whether completion is possible will depend on the documents, your instructions, any changes required and the employer’s response. Ask questions until you understand the terms that matter to you.
What should you send your solicitor?
- The full draft agreement, including schedules and any reference.
- Your employment contract and relevant amendments.
- The offer email and the stated deadline.
- Recent payslips and any bonus, commission or share scheme documents relevant to the package.
- A short account of why the agreement has been offered and your main concerns.
Flag any new job offer, proposed start date or promise in the agreement that does not match your circumstances. Identifying these points early can make the advice appointment more useful.
What if you do not accept?
A settlement is voluntary. Rejecting an offer does not by itself tell you what will happen to your employment; that depends on the surrounding circumstances. Discuss both the offer and the alternatives with your adviser before replying.
Get advice before your deadline
Our settlement agreement solicitors can explain the offer and your options. Read what to check before signing and our guide to negotiating an offer.
Contact us with your deadline or submit your agreement for review.