Reflection period for a settlement agreement

After signing, you may revoke the agreement in writing within the statutory period. Learn when the period starts and what you need to do.

How long is the cooling-off period?

After entering into a written termination agreement, the employee has a 14-day cooling-off period. During that period, the employee may revoke the agreement in writing without giving reasons.

If the employer did not inform the employee of this right in writing in the agreement, the cooling-off period is 21 days.

Go directly to revoking or rescinding

14days if the cooling-off period is stated correctly

21days if the written notice is missing

When does the cooling-off period start?

The starting point is legally important. The period begins when the written agreement is concluded. This does not always coincide with the date on which both parties sign a single paper document.

Case law shows that written agreement reached through authorised representatives or by email may also be decisive. Therefore, consider not only the signature but the entire course of offer and acceptance.

When does the cooling-off period start?

How to use the cooling-off period carefully

Record the likely starting point immediately. Keep the signed agreement and all relevant emails.
Have the consequences assessed. Check, among other things, unemployment benefits (WW), the end date, compensation, contractual clauses and outstanding entitlements.
Revoke in writing and in a verifiable manner. Ensure that your statement reaches the employer within the period and retain proof of sending and receipt.
Do not continue negotiating without a strategy. Have the effect of revocation on your position and any next steps assessed.

Not signing is different

As long as you have not agreed to the agreement, there is no need to revoke it. Refusing to sign and revoking a concluded agreement are legally different situations.

Refusing to sign or rescinding?