Six Things You Should Always Get In Writing
People often fail to put important things in writing for a variety of reasons. But relying on verbal information is risky and can lead to misunderstanding and results contrary to your intent. Here are some things that should always have written documentation:
Your will and health care directive. Many people put these off because they don’t want to think about death and illness and they don’t want the expense of a lawyer. Often they think their loved ones and heirs know what they intend. But if decisions on death and illness are left to be made at a very emotional time by someone else, your desires may be forgotten or misunderstood. Even a simple written will and health care directive can ensure that your intentions are known and spare your loved ones wrenching decisions at a difficult time.
Employment agreements. If an employer does not offer a written employment agreement, new hires are often hesitant to request one. You should always get in writing your job description and the terms of your employment. The agreement should include hours worked, supervision, overtime, vacation and sick time and how and when they can be used, how and when your performance is evaluated, grievance procedures and any other job requirements, benefits and procedures.
Employment agreements are not just important in the business world. Regular volunteers in nonprofit organizations such as libraries, hospitals and schools should also have written agreements. Volunteers can have different views on expectations of their work than the organization and they can be difficult to supervise. An agreement can clarify expectations, provide for regular performance evaluations, and spell out procedures to follow if the volunteer isn’t working out.
Individuals who hire help such as a nanny or home aide should also make clear in writing the job requirements and benefits. Keeping this kind of arrangement casual and verbal can lead to misunderstandings that can be particularly difficult when the employee is working in your home providing personal care to you or your loved ones.
Performance evaluations. Always get your employment performance evaluation in writing and keep it filed for future reference. It can be important in a variety of circumstances.
Rental Agreements. Many landlords and tenants know that a detailed rental agreement offers a great deal of protection for both parties. But if you casually rent a room in your house to a friend, or add a roommate to a shared arrangement without adding that person to an existing rental agreement, you are asking for trouble.
Any transaction with a friend or family member involving money. It’s easy to be hesitant to ask for a written agreement when lending money, co-signing a loan, purchasing a car or other item, or paying for a service from a friend or family member. You wouldn’t want to seem as if you don’t trust them. But get it in writing. The consequences of misunderstanding what you both agreed to are more than financial; you face the emotional toll of a damaged or ruined relationship.
Consumer complaints. Complaints about such things as product or service performance, credit card disputes or other consumer problems should be addressed in writing. Mail a detailed description of your complaint and request a return receipt to show the company received it and to give you the name of a person in the company who signed it. Keep a copy of your letter and don’t forget to follow up. Written complaints give you a paper trail in case you need to take your dispute further.
NOTE: The information you’ve obtained from this article is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. Consult an attorney for advice concerning your individual situation.