Template
[Date]
Dear [Candidate name],
We are pleased to offer you the position of [Title] at [Company], reporting to [Manager name, title]. Your start date will be [date], and your primary work location will be [remote from STATE / office address].
Compensation. Your starting base salary will be $[amount] per year, paid [semi-monthly / bi-weekly] and subject to standard withholdings. This position is [exempt / non-exempt] under applicable wage and hour law.
Equity. Subject to approval by the Board of Directors, you will be granted an option to purchase [number] shares of [Company]'s common stock under the company's equity incentive plan, vesting over [four] years with a [one]-year cliff, on the terms of the plan and your grant agreement.
Benefits. You will be eligible for the company's standard benefits, including [health, dental, vision, 401(k), PTO], subject to the terms of each plan.
Contingencies. This offer is contingent on [satisfactory background check, where permitted], your signing the company's Confidential Information and Invention Assignment Agreement, and verification of your eligibility to work in the United States.
At-will employment. Your employment with [Company] is at-will, meaning either you or the company may end it at any time, with or without cause or notice. [Remove or modify where at-will employment does not apply.]
This letter, together with the agreements referenced above, is the complete agreement about your employment terms. Please sign and return by [date].
Sincerely, [Name, title]
Accepted: ______________________ Date: __________
Before you send it
- Salary is within the approved range for the level (and matches any posted range)
- Exempt status checked against the state's salary threshold
- Equity amount approved and described as subject to Board approval
- No non-compete clause for California employees
- State-required pay notices sent with the offer where required (e.g., New York)
General information, current as of 2026-10-12. Employment law changes often and varies by state and city. This is not legal advice; confirm specifics with employment counsel.
Frequently asked questions
Should equity be in the offer letter?
Yes, describe the grant and vesting at a high level and state that it is subject to Board approval and the plan documents. The grant agreement carries the legal terms.