A written offer is the moment to confirm everything you discussed. Once you sign, changes are harder.
Checklist
- Job title and manager
- Base salary and pay frequency
- Bonus, commission or equity terms
- Start date and location, including remote rules
- Benefits start date
- PTO and holidays
- Visa sponsorship commitments and timeline
- Relocation support and any repayment clause
- Non-compete, non-solicit or confidentiality terms
- Contingencies like background checks
At-will employment
Most US jobs are “at-will,” meaning either side can end employment at any time for most reasons. Offer letters usually say this explicitly.
Visa holders
If the offer depends on a visa petition, confirm who pays legal fees and when filing will start.
