What to check in a job offer letter before you sign
An offer letter is more than a salary figure. The terms worth reading carefully, and the questions to ask before you accept.
By Yeem Team ·
Getting a job offer is exciting, and it is tempting to sign straight away. But an offer letter is a formal document, and the details matter. A few minutes of careful reading can save you from surprises about pay, notice periods or obligations later.
This is a general guide, not legal advice. If anything in your offer is unclear or unusual, ask the employer to explain it, and consider getting advice from someone you trust.
The basics
Check that these are correct:
- Your name and the job title
- The start date and the place of work
- Who you will report to
- Whether the role is permanent, fixed-term, contract or an internship
If any of these are different from what you discussed, raise it before signing.
Pay and benefits
Look beyond the headline number.
- CTC breakdown: what is fixed, what is variable, and what is paid later, such as gratuity
- Variable pay: how it is decided and when it is paid
- Joining bonus: when it is paid and whether you must repay it if you leave within a certain time
- Benefits: health insurance, leave policy and any allowances
Ask for an estimate of your monthly in-hand salary if it is not clear.
Probation period
Many offers include a probation period, often a few months, during which your performance is reviewed. Check how long it is, what the notice period is during probation, and whether any benefits only start after it ends.
Notice period
The notice period is how long you must work, or how much notice you must give, before leaving. It also affects how quickly you can join your next job in the future. Check the notice period both during probation and after confirmation, and whether you can pay instead of serving notice.
Working hours and location
Check your working days and hours, whether the role is office-based, remote or hybrid, and whether the company can transfer you to another city. If the offer mentions travel or shift work, make sure you understand what that means in practice.
Bonds and repayment clauses
Some offers include a service agreement or bond that requires you to stay for a fixed time or repay a sum if you leave early, often linked to training costs. Read these clauses carefully. Understand the amount, the time period and exactly when it applies. If a clause worries you, ask questions before you sign.
Confidentiality and non-compete clauses
Many offers include confidentiality terms that protect company information. This is normal. Some also include restrictions on working for competitors or contacting clients after you leave. Read them carefully and ask what they mean in practice.
Background checks and documents
Offers are often conditional on background verification, references or submitting certain documents. Check what is needed and by when. Never pay money to anyone to "confirm" or "process" your offer. Genuine employers do not ask for fees.
Make sure it is genuine
Fake job offers are common. Be cautious if:
- The offer arrives from a personal email address rather than the company's domain
- You are asked to pay a fee for training, equipment or registration
- There was no real interview or the process felt rushed
- The salary seems far too high for the role
If in doubt, contact the company directly through its official website.
Ask questions, then decide
It is completely normal to ask questions about an offer. A good employer will welcome them. Take the time you need, within the deadline they give, and sign only when you understand what you are agreeing to. Keep a copy of the signed letter safe. You may need it later for loans, visas or future jobs.