[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":529},["ShallowReactive",2],{"document-reference-request-and-release-D605":3},{"document":4,"label":30,"preview":11,"thumb":31,"thumb600":32,"description":5,"descriptionCustom":6,"apiDescription":5,"pages":8,"extension":10,"parents":33,"breadcrumb":37,"related":43,"customDescModule":182,"customdescription":6,"mdFm":183,"mdProseHtml":528},{"description":5,"descriptionCustom":6,"label":7,"pages":8,"size":9,"extension":10,"preview":11,"thumb":12,"svgFrame":13,"seoMetadata":14,"parents":16,"keywords":29},"EMPLOYEE REFERENCE REQUEST RELEASE I, [employee], hereby authorize [former employer] to release any and all references and records related to my past employment and work history to [prospective employer]. I release and forever discharge the above-named former employer and prospective employer of any and all claims related to this Employee Reference Request Release and any related exchange of records or other communications related to my past employment. Date Social Security Number Signature Printed Name ",null,"Reference Request and Release","1",513,"doc","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/1000px/reference-request-and-release-D605.png","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/605.png","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/svgs/docviewerWebApp1.html?v6#605.xml",{"title":15,"description":6},"reference request and release",[17,20,23,26],{"label":18,"url":19},"Human Resources","/templates/human-resources/",{"label":21,"url":22},"Hire an Employee","/templates/hire-employee/",{"label":24,"url":25},"Letters to Applicant","/templates//letters-to-applicant/",{"label":27,"url":28},"Background & Reference Check","/templates/background-reference-check/","reference request release","Reference Request and Release Template","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/400px/605.png","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/600px/605.png",[34,17,20,23,26],{"label":35,"url":36},"Templates","/templates/",[38,39,40],{"label":35,"url":36},{"label":18,"url":19},{"label":41,"url":42},"Offboarding & References","/templates/offboarding-and-references/",[44,48,52,56,60,64,68,72,76,80,84,88,92,108,125,140,152,167],{"label":45,"url":46,"thumb":47,"extension":10},"Request for Reference","/template/request-for-reference-D499","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/499.png",{"label":49,"url":50,"thumb":51,"extension":10},"Request for Character Reference","/template/request-for-character-reference-D497","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/497.png",{"label":53,"url":54,"thumb":55,"extension":10},"Request for Employment Reference","/template/request-for-employment-reference-D498","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/498.png",{"label":57,"url":58,"thumb":59,"extension":10},"Employee Reference Release Agreement","/template/employee-reference-release-agreement-D674","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/674.png",{"label":61,"url":62,"thumb":63,"extension":10},"Request Release of Personal Guaranty","/template/request-release-of-personal-guaranty-D299","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/299.png",{"label":65,"url":66,"thumb":67,"extension":10},"Notice to Suspend Deliveries and Request for Release","/template/notice-to-suspend-deliveries-and-request-for-release-D1069","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/1069.png",{"label":69,"url":70,"thumb":71,"extension":10},"Mutual Release","/template/mutual-release-D1043","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/1043.png",{"label":73,"url":74,"thumb":75,"extension":10},"Reference on Qualifications","/template/reference-on-qualifications-D604","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/604.png",{"label":77,"url":78,"thumb":79,"extension":10},"Personal Recommendation and Reference","/template/personal-recommendation-and-reference-D494","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/494.png",{"label":81,"url":82,"thumb":83,"extension":10},"Post-Employment Reference Policy","/template/post-employment-reference-policy-D726","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/726.png",{"label":85,"url":86,"thumb":87,"extension":10},"Unilateral Liability Release","/template/unilateral-liability-release-D1045","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/1045.png",{"label":89,"url":90,"thumb":91,"extension":10},"Reference Check Letter","/template/reference-check-letter-D601","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/601.png",{"description":93,"descriptionCustom":6,"label":94,"pages":8,"size":9,"extension":10,"preview":95,"thumb":96,"svgFrame":97,"seoMetadata":98,"parents":100,"keywords":106,"url":107},"[DATE] [CONTACT NAME] [ADDRESS] [ADDRESS 2] [CITY, STATE/PROVINCE] [ZIP/POSTAL CODE] SUBJECT: Company Credit Account Approval TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: This will confirm that [Name] has been employed by [Company name] for approximately [Duration]. During his tenure of employment, he has displayed a unique ability to identify and solve problems. He has been instrumental in the streamlining our accounting department. His experience in the accounting and finance area has been a valuable asset, one which can be of great value to any company utilizing his services","Verification of Employment and Letter of Recommendation","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/1000px/verification-of-employment-and-letter-of-recommendation-D501.png","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/501.png","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/svgs/docviewerWebApp1.html?v6#501.xml",{"title":99,"description":6},"verification of employment and letter of recommendation",[101,103],{"label":18,"url":102},"human-resources",{"label":104,"url":105},"References & Recommendations","references-recommendations","verification employment letter recommendation","/template/verification-of-employment-and-letter-of-recommendation-D501",{"description":109,"descriptionCustom":6,"label":110,"pages":111,"size":9,"extension":10,"preview":112,"thumb":113,"svgFrame":114,"seoMetadata":115,"parents":117,"keywords":116,"url":124},"EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT - AT WILL EMPLOYEE This Employment Agreement for \"At Will\" Employee (the \"Agreement\") is made and effective this [DATE], BETWEEN: [EMPLOYEE NAME] (the \"Employee\"), an individual with his main address at: [COMPLETE ADDRESS] AND: [YOUR COMPANY NAME] (the \"Corporation\"), an entity organized and existing under the laws of the [State/Province] of [STATE/PROVINCE], with its head office located at: [YOUR COMPLETE ADDRESS] RECITALS In consideration of the covenants and agreements herein contained and the moneys to be paid hereunder, the Corporation hereby employs the Employee and the Employee hereby agrees to perform services as an employee of the Corporation, on an \"at will\" basis, upon the following terms and conditions: APPOINTMENT The Employee is hereby employed by the Corporation to render such services and to perform such tasks as may be assigned by the Corporation. The Corporation may, in its sole discretion, increase or reduce the duties, or modify the title and job description, of the Employee from time to time, and any such increase, reduction or modification shall not be deemed a termination of this Agreement. ACCEPTANCE OF EMPLOYMENT Employee accepts employment with the Corporation upon the terms set forth above and agrees to devote all Employee's time, energy and ability to the interests of the Corporation, and to perform Employee's duties in an efficient, trustworthy and business-like manner. DEVOTION OF TIME TO EMPLOYMENT The Employee shall devote the Employee's best efforts and substantially all of the Employee's working time to performing the duties on behalf of the Corporation. The Employee shall provide services during the hours that are scheduled by the Corporation management. The Employee shall be prompt in reporting to work at the assigned time. NO CONFLICT OF INTEREST Employee shall not engage in any other business while employed by the Corporation. Employee shall not engage in any activity that conflicts with the Employees duties to the Corporation. Employee shall not provide any service or lend any aid or assistance to any party that competes with the services offered by the Corporation. Employee shall not provide any services to clients or prospective clients of the Corporation outside of the provision of services for the Corporation, whether such services are provided with or without compensation or remuneration. CORPORATION PROPERTY Employee acknowledges and agrees that while employed by the Corporation the Employee may be provided with use of computer equipment and other property of the Corporation. The use and possession of the such items shall be subject to any policies, requirements or restrictions established by the Corporation. Such items may only be used in performance of the Employee's duties for the corporation. On request of the Corporation, the Employee shall immediately deliver any such items to the Corporation. Upon termination of employment, Employee shall have the affirmative duty to return any such item to the Corporation whether a request is made or not. The obligation to return Corporation property shall extend and include any and all work product, client property, proprietary rights, intangible property, and all other property of the corporation regardless of the form or medium. COMPENSATION The Corporation shall pay the Employee such hourly compensation as determined by the Corporation. Payment shall be at the same time as the Corporations usual payroll to other employees. BONUS & BENEFITS Payment of any bonuses shall be at the complete discretion of the Corporation. No guarantee or representation that any bonuses will be paid has been made to the Employee. Standard benefits that are provided to other non-management employees shall be offered to the Employee, subject to the Corporation's policies and the terms and conditions of such benefits. WITHHOLDING All sums payable to Employee under this Agreement will be reduced by all federal, state, local, and other withholdings and similar taxes and payments required by applicable law. QUALIFICATIONS OF EMPLOYEE The employee shall satisfy all of the qualification that are established by the Corporation. TERM OF AGREEMENT There shall be no guaranteed term of employment. Employer acknowledges and agrees that Employee shall be an \"At Will\" Employee and that Employee's employment may be terminated at any time by the Corporation, with or without cause. FEES FROM EMPLOYEE'S WORK The Corporation shall have exclusive authority to determine the fees, or a procedure for establishing the fees, to be charged to clients by the Corporation for services that are provided by the Employee. All sums paid to the Employee or the Corporation in the way of fees, in cash or in kind, or otherwise for services of the Employee, shall, except as otherwise specifically agreed by the Corporation, be and remain the property of the Corporation and shall be included in the Corporation's name in such checking account or accounts as the Corporation may from time to time designate. CLIENTS AND CLIENT RECORDS The Corporation shall have the authority to determine who will be accepted as clients of the Corporation, and the Employee recognizes that such clients accepted are clients of the Corporation and not the Employee. All client records and files of any type concerning clients of the Corporation shall belong to and remain the property of the Corporation, notwithstanding the subsequent termination of the employment. POLICIES AND PROCEDURES The Corporation shall have the authority to establish from time to time the policies and procedures to be followed by the Employee in performing services for the Corporation. This may include, but is not necessarily limited to, employment policies, computer use policies, Internet access policies, email policies, and all other policies, procedures, directives, and mandates established by the Corporation, whether or not in written form or formally adopted. Employee shall abide by the provisions of any contract entered into by the Corporation under which the Employee provides services. Employee shall comply with the terms and conditions of any and all contracts entered by the Corporation. TERMINATION Employee acknowledges and agrees that Employee is an \"at will\" employee of the Corporation. As such, no term of employment is created hereby and employee may be terminated at any time in the sole discretion of the Corporation, whether there exists any cause for termination or not. CREATIONS AND INVENTIONS Employee acknowledges and agrees that any and all work product of the Employee that is conceived or created during the Employee's employment with the Corporation is the exclusive property of the Corporation. This shall include any and all copyrights, trade secrets, confidential information, patents, trademarks, trade dress, ideas, concepts, plans, business plans, business concepts, techniques, inventions, drawings, artwork, logos, graphics, web pages, databases, software, programs, CGI's, plug ins, applications, brochures, inventions, marketing plans and concepts, and all other ideas and work product of the Employee. The Employee acknowledges and agrees that all creations shall be \"works made for hire\" as defined in the [ACT OR CODE]. Notwithstanding the fact that this material may be considered to be a work made for hire, Employee agrees, during Employee's employment and thereafter, which covenant shall survive any termination of the employment relationship, to execute any and all documents requested by the Corporation to confirm the Corporation's ownership and control of all such material, including but not limited to assignments of copyright, confirmations of work for hire status, waivers of proprietary rights, copyright application, and any other documents requested by Corporation. RESTRICTIVE COVENANTS","Employment Agreement_At Will Employee","7","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/1000px/employment-agreement_at-will-employee-D541.png","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/541.png","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/svgs/docviewerWebApp1.html?v6#541.xml",{"title":116,"description":6},"employment agreement_at will employee",[118,119,121],{"label":18,"url":102},{"label":21,"url":120},"hire-employee",{"label":122,"url":123},"Legal Agreements","business-legal-agreements","/template/employment-agreement_at-will-employee-D541",{"description":126,"descriptionCustom":6,"label":127,"pages":128,"size":9,"extension":10,"preview":129,"thumb":130,"svgFrame":131,"seoMetadata":132,"parents":134,"keywords":133,"url":139},"NON-DISCLOSURE AGREEMENT (NDA) This Non-Disclosure Agreement (the \"Agreement\") is made and effective [DATE], BETWEEN: [YOUR COMPANY NAME] (the \"Disclosing Party\"), a corporation organized and existing under the laws of the [State/Province] of [STATE/PROVINCE], with its head office located at: [YOUR COMPLETE ADDRESS] AND: [RECEIVING PARTY NAME] (the \"Receiving Party\"), an individual with his main address located at OR a corporation organized and existing under the laws of the [State/Province] of [STATE/PROVINCE], with its head office located at: [COMPLETE ADDRESS] WHEREAS, Receiving Party has been or will be engaged in the performance of work on [DESCRIBE]; and in connection therewith will be given access to certain confidential and proprietary information; and WHEREAS, Receiving Party and Disclosing Party wish to evidence by this Agreement the manner in which said confidential and proprietary material will be treated. NOW, THEREFORE, it is agreed as follows: NON-DISCLOSURE OF CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION Both Parties understand and agree that each Party may have access to the confidential information of the other party. For the purposes of this Agreement, \"Confidential Information\" means proprietary and confidential information about the Disclosing Party's (or it's suppliers') business or activities. Such information includes all business, financial, technical, and other information marked or designated by such Party as \"confidential\" or \"proprietary.\" Confidential Information also includes information which, by the nature of the circumstances surrounding the disclosure, ought in good faith to be treated as confidential. For the purposes of this Agreement, Confidential Information does not include: Information that is currently in the public domain or that enters the public domain after the signing of this Agreement. Information a Party lawfully receives from a third Party without restriction on disclosure and without breach of a non-disclosure obligation. Information that the Receiving Party knew prior to receiving any Confidential Information from the Disclosing Party. Information that the Receiving Party independently develops without reliance on any Confidential Information from the Disclosing Party. Each Party agrees that it will not disclose to any third Party or use any Confidential Information disclosed to it by the other Party except when expressly permitted in writing by the other Party. Each Party also agrees that it will take all reasonable measures to maintain the confidentiality of all Confidential Information of the other Party in its possession or control. TERM The term of this Agreement is [number] of [years/months] from the date of execution by both Parties. TITLE The Receiving Party agrees that all Confidential Information furnished by the Disclosing Party shall remain the sole property of the Disclosing Party. DISCLAIMER","Non Disclosure Agreement Nda","3","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/1000px/non-disclosure-agreement-nda-D12692.png","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/12692.png","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/svgs/docviewerWebApp1.html?v6#12692.xml",{"title":133,"description":6},"non disclosure agreement nda",[135,136],{"label":122,"url":123},{"label":137,"url":138},"Confidentiality Agreements","confidentiality-agreement","/template/non-disclosure-agreement-nda-D12692",{"description":141,"descriptionCustom":6,"label":142,"pages":8,"size":9,"extension":10,"preview":143,"thumb":144,"svgFrame":145,"seoMetadata":146,"parents":148,"keywords":147,"url":151},"[DATE] [CONTACT NAME] [ADDRESS] [ADDRESS 2] [CITY, STATE/PROVINCE] [ZIP/POSTAL CODE] SUBJECT: JOB OFFER FOR [DESCRIBE] Dear [CANDIDATE NAME]: Congratulations! [Company name] is excited to offer you the position of [job title] with an expected start date of [day, month, year] at a starting salary of [dollar amount] per [hour, year, etc.]. You can expect to receive payment [weekly, biweekly, monthly, etc.], starting on [date of first pay period]. We must wrap up a few more formalities, including the successful completion of your [background check, drug screening, reference check, etc.]. As the [job title], you will report to [manager/supervisor name and title] at [workplace location] from [hours of day, days of week]","Job Offer Letter Long","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/1000px/job-offer-letter-long-D12769.png","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/12769.png","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/svgs/docviewerWebApp1.html?v6#12769.xml",{"title":147,"description":6},"job offer letter long",[149,150],{"label":18,"url":102},{"label":21,"url":120},"/template/job-offer-letter-long-D12769",{"description":153,"descriptionCustom":6,"label":154,"pages":155,"size":156,"extension":10,"preview":157,"thumb":158,"svgFrame":159,"seoMetadata":160,"parents":161,"keywords":165,"url":166},"INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR AGREEMENT This Independent Contractor Agreement (\"Agreement\") is made and effective [Date], BETWEEN: [INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR NAME] (the \"Independent Contractor\"), a company organized and existing under the laws of the [State/Province] of [STATE/PROVINCE], with its head office located at: [COMPLETE ADDRESS] AND: [YOUR COMPANY NAME] (the \"Company\"), a company organized and existing under the laws of the [State/Province] of [STATE/PROVINCE], with its head office located at: [YOUR COMPLETE ADDRESS] RECITALS Independent Contractor is engaged in providing [Describe] business services, its Employer Tax I.D. Number is [Insert], and its Business License Number is [insert]. Independent Contractor has complied with all Federal, State, and local laws regarding business permits, sales permits, licenses, reporting requirements, tax withholding requirements, and other legal requirements of any kind that may be required to carry out said business and the Scope of Work which is to be performed as an Independent Contractor pursuant to this Agreement. Independent Contractor is or remains open to conducting similar tasks or activities for clients other than the Company and holds themselves out to the public to be a separate business entity. Company desires to engage and contract for the services of the Independent Contractor to perform certain tasks as set forth below. Independent Contractor desires to enter into this Agreement and perform as an independent contractor for the company and is willing to do so on the terms and conditions set forth below. NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the above recitals and the mutual promises and conditions contained in this Agreement, the Parties agree as follows: TERMS This Agreement shall be effective commencing [Date], and shall continue until terminated at the completion of the Scope of Work which shall occur no later than [Date] or by either party as otherwise provided herein. STATUS OF INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR This Agreement does not constitute a hiring by either party. It is the parties intentions that Independent Contractor shall have an independent contractor status and not be an employee for any purposes, including, but not limited to, [laws]. Independent Contractor shall retain sole and absolute discretion in the manner and means of carrying out their activities and responsibilities under this Agreement. This Agreement shall not be considered or construed to be a partnership or joint venture, and the Company shall not be liable for any obligations incurred by Independent Contractor unless specifically authorized in writing. Independent Contractor shall not act as an agent of the Company, ostensibly or otherwise, nor bind the Company in any manner, unless specifically authorized to do so in writing. TASKS, DUTIES, AND SCOPE OF WORK Independent Contractor agrees to devote as much time, attention, and energy as necessary to complete or achieve the following: [Describe]. The above to be referred to in this Agreement as the \"Scope of Work\". It is expected that the Scope of Work will completed by [Date]. Independent Contractor shall additionally perform any and all tasks and duties associated with the Scope of Work set forth above, including but not limited to, work being performed already or related change orders. Independent Contractor shall not be entitled to engage in any activities which are not expressly set forth by this Agreement. The books and records related to the Scope of Work set forth in this Agreement shall be maintained by the Independent Contractor at the Independent Contractor's principal place of business and open to inspection by Company during regular working hours. Documents to which Company will be entitled to inspect include, but are not limited to, any and all contract documents, change orders/purchase orders and work authorized by Independent Contractor or Company on existing or potential projects related to this Agreement. Independent Contractor shall be responsible to the management and directors of Company, but Independent Contractor will not be required to follow or establish a regular or daily work schedule. Supply all necessary equipment, materials and supplies. Independent Contractor will not rely on the equipment or offices of Company for completion of tasks and duties set forth pursuant to this Agreement. Any advice given Independent Contractors regarding the scope of work shall be considered a suggestion only, not an instruction. Company retains the right to inspect, stop, or alter the work of Independent Contractor to assure its conformity with this Agreement. ASSURANCE OF SERVICES Independent Contractor will assure that the following individuals (the \"Key Employees\") will be available to perform, and will perform, the Services hereunder until they are completed (identify by title and name as applicable): [Name of Key Employee, Title] [Name of Key Employee, Title] The Key Employees may be changed only with the prior written approval of the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld. COMPENSATION Independent Contractor shall be entitled to compensation for performing those tasks and duties related to the Scope of Work as follows: [Describe] Such compensation shall become due and payable to Independent Contractor in the following time, place, and manner: [Describe] NOTICE CONCERNING WITHHOLDING OF TAXES Independent Contractor recognizes and understands that it will receive a [specify tax] statement and related tax statements, and will be required to file corporate and/or individual tax returns and to pay taxes in accordance with all provisions of applicable Federal and State law. Independent Contractor hereby promises and agrees to indemnify the Company for any damages or expenses, including attorney's fees, and legal expenses, incurred by the Company as a result of independent contractor's failure to make such required payments. AGREEMENT TO WAIVE RIGHTS TO BENEFITS Independent Contractor hereby waives and foregoes the right to receive any benefits given by Company to its regular employees, including, but not limited to, health benefits, vacation and sick leave benefits, profit sharing plans, etc. This waiver is applicable to all non-salary benefits which might otherwise be found to accrue to the Independent Contractor by virtue of their services to Company, and is effective for the entire duration of Independent Contractor's agreement with Company. This waiver is effective independently of Independent Contractor's employment status as adjudged for taxation purposes or for any other purpose. Neither this Agreement, nor any duties or obligations under this Agreement may be assigned by either party without the consent of the other. TERMINATION This Agreement may be terminated prior to the completion or achievement of the Scope of Work by either party giving [number] days written notice. Such termination shall not prejudice any other remedy to which the terminating party may be entitled, either by law, in equity, or under this Agreement. NON-DISCLOSURE OF TRADE SECRETS, CUSTOMER LISTS AND OTHER PROPRIETARY INFORMATION Independent Contractor agrees not to disclose or communicate, in any manner, either during or after Independent Contractor's agreement with Company, information about Company, its operations, clientele, or any other information, that relate to the business of Company including, but not limited to, the names of its customers, its marketing strategies, operations, or any other information of any kind which would be deemed confidential, a trade secret, a customer list, or other form of proprietary information of Company. Independent Contractor acknowledges that the above information is material and confidential and that it affects the profitability of Company. ","Independent Contractor Agreement","6",62,"https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/1000px/independent-contractor-agreement-D160.png","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/160.png","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/svgs/docviewerWebApp1.html?v6#160.xml",{"title":6,"description":6},[162],{"label":163,"url":164},"Consultant & Contractors","consulting-contractor-business","independent contractor agreement","/template/independent-contractor-agreement-D160",{"description":168,"descriptionCustom":6,"label":169,"pages":170,"size":9,"extension":10,"preview":171,"thumb":172,"svgFrame":173,"seoMetadata":174,"parents":176,"keywords":175,"url":181},"[DATE] [CONTACT NAME] [ADDRESS] [ADDRESS 2] [CITY, STATE/PROVINCE] [ZIP/POSTAL CODE] SUBJECT: Termination of your employment Dear [Contact name], We regret to inform you that your employment with [YOUR COMPANY NAME] is terminated effective upon receipt of this letter for the following reason(s): [DETAIL REASONS] [DETAIL REASONS] [DETAIL REASONS] Please vacate the premises immediately with your personal possessions. We will forward your salary earned to date in due course together with any vacation pay to which you are entitled. Within [NUMBER] days of termination we shall issue you a statement of accrued benefits. Any insurance benefits shall continue in accordance with applicable law and/or provisions of our personnel policy. Please contact [Name], at your earliest convenience, who will explain each of these items and arrange with you for the return of any company property. Sincerely, [YOUR NAME] [YOUR TITLE] [YOUR PHONE NUMBER] [YOUREMAIL@YOURCOMPANY.COM] [IF SENT BY EMAIL YOU MAY INCLUDE THIS NOTICE]","Employee Dismissal Letter","2","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/1000px/employee-dismissal-letter-D508.png","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/508.png","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/svgs/docviewerWebApp1.html?v6#508.xml",{"title":175,"description":6},"employee dismissal letter",[177,178],{"label":18,"url":102},{"label":179,"url":180},"Employee Termination","employee-termination","/template/employee-dismissal-letter-D508",false,{"seo":184,"reviewer":197,"legal_disclaimer":201,"quick_facts":202,"at_a_glance":204,"personas":208,"variants":233,"glossary":260,"clauses":294,"how_to_fill":340,"common_mistakes":381,"faqs":406,"industries":434,"comparisons":459,"diy_vs_lawyer":473,"jurisdictions":486,"related_template_ids_curated":507,"schema":515,"classification":516},{"meta_title":185,"meta_description":186,"primary_keyword":187,"secondary_keywords":188},"Reference Request and Release Template (Free Word)","Free reference request and release template authorizing employers to give and obtain employment references. Used in 190+ countries. Free Word and PDF download.","reference request and release template",[189,190,191,192,193,194,195,196],"employment reference release form","reference authorization form","background check release form","employee reference release template","reference check authorization form","reference request form template","employment verification release form","reference waiver form template",{"name":198,"credential":199,"reviewed_date":200},"Bruno Goulet","CEO, Business in a Box","2026-05-02",true,{"difficulty":203,"legal_review_recommended":201,"signature_required":201,"notarization_required":182},"medium",{"what_it_is":205,"when_you_need_it":206,"whats_inside":207},"A Reference Request and Release is a legally binding document through which a job candidate or employee authorizes their current or former employers, supervisors, and professional contacts to disclose employment-related information to a prospective employer or designated third party. It also releases those reference providers from liability for statements made in good faith. This free Word download lets you customize the scope of authorization, the parties covered, and any limitations — then export as PDF for signature before any reference check begins.\n","Use it during a pre-employment screening process when you need written authorization from a candidate before contacting references, or when an outgoing employee requests that you provide a reference on their behalf. It is also required whenever a staffing agency, background screening firm, or HR department conducts structured reference checks on candidates for senior, regulated, or security-sensitive roles.\n","Candidate and authorizing party identification, scope of information authorized for disclosure, identity of parties authorized to give and receive references, liability release for reference providers, a confidentiality acknowledgment, duration of the authorization, and candidate signature with date. The template includes both the outbound request form sent to prior employers and the inbound release signed by the candidate.\n",[209,213,217,221,225,229],{"title":210,"use_case":211,"icon_asset_id":212},"HR managers and recruiters","Collecting signed authorization before contacting a candidate's references","persona-hr-manager",{"title":214,"use_case":215,"icon_asset_id":216},"Small business owners","Protecting themselves legally when giving or receiving employment references","persona-small-business-owner",{"title":218,"use_case":219,"icon_asset_id":220},"Staffing agencies","Standardizing reference check authorization across all placed candidates","persona-staffing-agency",{"title":222,"use_case":223,"icon_asset_id":224},"Hiring managers in regulated industries","Meeting compliance requirements before checking references for licensed roles","persona-operations-director",{"title":226,"use_case":227,"icon_asset_id":228},"Job candidates and employees","Authorizing former employers to discuss performance and employment history","persona-freelancer",{"title":230,"use_case":231,"icon_asset_id":232},"Corporate legal and compliance teams","Establishing a documented liability shield for managers giving outbound references","persona-legal-counsel",[234,237,241,245,249,253,257],{"situation":235,"recommended_template":7,"slug":236},"Standard pre-employment reference check for a salaried role","reference-request-and-release-D605",{"situation":238,"recommended_template":239,"slug":240},"Comprehensive background check covering criminal, credit, and employment history","Background Check Authorization Form","background-check-policy-D13419",{"situation":242,"recommended_template":243,"slug":244},"Academic or educational reference for a professional certification program","Academic Reference Request Letter","request-for-reference-D499",{"situation":246,"recommended_template":247,"slug":248},"Candidate waiving the right to review confidential reference letters","Reference Waiver Letter","reference-check-letter-D601",{"situation":250,"recommended_template":251,"slug":252},"Employer providing a written reference on behalf of a departing employee","Employment Reference Letter","request-for-employment-reference-D498",{"situation":254,"recommended_template":255,"slug":256},"Confirming only dates of employment and title without substantive reference","Employment Verification Letter","verification-of-employment-and-letter-of-recommendation-D501",{"situation":258,"recommended_template":259,"slug":248},"Checking professional references for an executive or C-suite hire","Executive Reference Check Form",[261,264,267,270,273,276,279,282,285,288,291],{"term":262,"definition":263},"Reference Release","A signed authorization by which a candidate permits named individuals or organizations to disclose information about their employment history, performance, or character to a prospective employer.",{"term":265,"definition":266},"Liability Waiver","A clause within the release that protects reference providers from legal claims arising from statements made honestly and in good faith during a reference check.",{"term":268,"definition":269},"Defamation","A false statement of fact communicated to a third party that damages the subject's reputation — the primary legal risk reference givers seek to limit with a signed release.",{"term":271,"definition":272},"Qualified Privilege","A legal protection available in many jurisdictions that shields employers from defamation liability when giving employment references, provided the statements are made honestly and without malice.",{"term":274,"definition":275},"Scope of Authorization","The specific categories of information — job performance, reason for leaving, attendance, eligibility for rehire — that the candidate authorizes reference providers to discuss.",{"term":277,"definition":278},"Reference Provider","Any individual or organization named in the release who is authorized to respond to reference inquiries, typically a former supervisor, HR department, or manager.",{"term":280,"definition":281},"Adverse Action","A hiring decision — such as rejecting a candidate — made in whole or in part on the basis of information obtained during a reference or background check, triggering notice requirements under certain laws.",{"term":283,"definition":284},"FCRA (Fair Credit Reporting Act)","A US federal law that governs background checks conducted by third-party consumer reporting agencies, requiring specific disclosures and a separate written authorization before the check is performed.",{"term":286,"definition":287},"Eligible for Rehire","A standard reference-check data point indicating whether a former employer would consider re-employing the candidate — often the only substantive fact many companies are willing to confirm.",{"term":289,"definition":290},"Authorization Duration","The period during which the signed release remains valid — typically a defined number of months, after which a new authorization must be obtained before additional reference inquiries can be made.",{"term":292,"definition":293},"Prospective Employer","The organization or individual receiving reference information about the candidate, named as an authorized recipient in the release to limit disclosure to identified parties.",[295,300,305,310,315,320,325,330,335],{"name":296,"plain_english":297,"sample_language":298,"common_mistake":299},"Parties and candidate identification","Identifies the candidate granting the release, the prospective employer or agency authorized to receive information, and the reference providers authorized to disclose it.","I, [CANDIDATE FULL NAME], of [CANDIDATE ADDRESS], hereby authorize [PROSPECTIVE EMPLOYER NAME] and its designated agents to contact the individuals and organizations listed in Schedule A for the purpose of obtaining employment references.","Naming only a company rather than specific supervisors or departments. When HR departments receive broad reference requests with no named contact, they default to confirming only dates and title — defeating the purpose of the check.",{"name":301,"plain_english":302,"sample_language":303,"common_mistake":304},"Scope of information authorized","Specifies which categories of employment information the candidate authorizes reference providers to discuss, such as job performance, attendance, disciplinary history, and reason for departure.","I authorize the above-named references to disclose information regarding my: (a) job title and dates of employment; (b) job performance and responsibilities; (c) attendance and reliability; (d) reason for leaving; (e) eligibility for rehire; and (f) any other information they consider relevant to my suitability for employment.","Using a catch-all 'any information' scope without itemizing categories. Overly broad authorization language can be challenged as unconscionable in some jurisdictions and may cause reference providers to decline participation out of caution.",{"name":306,"plain_english":307,"sample_language":308,"common_mistake":309},"Liability release for reference providers","Releases all named reference providers from claims arising from statements made honestly during the reference check, including defamation, negligent misrepresentation, and invasion of privacy.","I hereby release [REFERENCE PROVIDER NAME / ALL LISTED REFERENCES] from any and all claims, damages, or liability of any kind arising from the disclosure of information made in good faith in response to a reference inquiry under this authorization.","Omitting a good-faith qualifier on the release. An unconditional release that purports to protect malicious or knowingly false statements is unenforceable in most jurisdictions and may invalidate the entire clause.",{"name":311,"plain_english":312,"sample_language":313,"common_mistake":314},"Authorization of prospective employer to receive information","Explicitly grants the prospective employer and its agents — including third-party screening firms — the right to receive and use disclosed reference information in making an employment decision.","I authorize [PROSPECTIVE EMPLOYER NAME], its employees, agents, and any designated third-party background screening provider to receive, record, and evaluate information disclosed pursuant to this release in connection with my application for the position of [POSITION TITLE].","Failing to name third-party screening agencies as authorized recipients. If a background check firm conducts the reference check and is not named, the authorization may not satisfy FCRA or equivalent provincial disclosure requirements.",{"name":316,"plain_english":317,"sample_language":318,"common_mistake":319},"Confidentiality of reference information","Requires the prospective employer to keep reference information confidential and use it only for the stated hiring purpose, limiting onward disclosure to decision-makers involved in the hiring process.","The prospective employer agrees to maintain the confidentiality of all reference information received and to use it solely for the purpose of evaluating the candidate's suitability for the position of [POSITION TITLE]. Reference information shall not be disclosed to unauthorized parties.","No confidentiality obligation on the receiving employer. Without this clause, reference content can be shared freely — including back to the candidate's current employer — creating legal and reputational risk for the reference giver.",{"name":321,"plain_english":322,"sample_language":323,"common_mistake":324},"Right to withdraw authorization","States that the candidate may revoke the authorization in writing before reference checks are conducted, but that revocation does not apply to disclosures already made.","This authorization may be revoked by the candidate in writing at any time prior to the commencement of reference checks. Revocation does not apply to information already disclosed in good faith pursuant to this release before receipt of written notice of revocation.","Omitting a revocation clause entirely. Without it, the document could be construed as an irrevocable perpetual release — which courts in several jurisdictions will not enforce, potentially voiding the entire instrument.",{"name":326,"plain_english":327,"sample_language":328,"common_mistake":329},"Duration and expiration of authorization","Sets the period during which the release is valid — typically 90 to 180 days from the date of signature — after which the employer must obtain a fresh authorization before contacting references again.","This authorization is valid for [90 / 180] days from the date of signature below. After expiration, a new signed authorization must be obtained before any additional reference inquiries are made on behalf of the prospective employer.","Leaving the duration open-ended. A perpetual authorization exposes the candidate to indefinite reference checks for future roles they did not apply for, which creates privacy law issues under GDPR and Canadian PIPEDA.",{"name":331,"plain_english":332,"sample_language":333,"common_mistake":334},"Governing law and jurisdiction","Specifies which jurisdiction's laws govern interpretation and enforcement of the release, and where any disputes will be resolved.","This Release shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of [STATE / PROVINCE / COUNTRY]. Any dispute arising under this Release shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of [JURISDICTION].","Choosing governing law based on the employer's headquarters when the candidate and reference providers are all located in a different jurisdiction. Many employment and privacy laws apply based on where the employee works, not where the employer is incorporated.",{"name":336,"plain_english":337,"sample_language":338,"common_mistake":339},"Candidate acknowledgment and signature","Records the candidate's informed, voluntary consent to the release, confirming they have read and understood the document before signing.","By signing below, I confirm that I have read and understood this Reference Request and Release, that I sign it voluntarily, and that I authorize the disclosures and release liability as set out above. Candidate Signature: ___________ Date: [DATE] Printed Name: [CANDIDATE FULL NAME]","Collecting only an electronic checkbox without preserving a dated, identifiable signature record. In a dispute over whether authorization was granted, an unattributed checkbox provides significantly weaker evidence than a timestamped, identity-verified signature.",[341,346,351,356,361,366,371,376],{"step":342,"title":343,"description":344,"tip":345},1,"Identify the candidate and the prospective employer","Enter the candidate's full legal name and address in the parties block. Add the prospective employer's registered legal entity name — not just a brand or division name — and the specific position the candidate has applied for.","Using the employer's registered legal name rather than a trade name matters if the authorization is ever challenged — the release must bind the correct legal entity.",{"step":347,"title":348,"description":349,"tip":350},2,"List all reference providers in Schedule A","Name each reference provider with their full name, current employer, title, and preferred contact method. Attach Schedule A to the signed release so the authorization is traceable to specific individuals.","Ask the candidate to confirm each reference provider's current contact details before you finalize Schedule A — stale contact information is the single most common reason reference checks stall.",{"step":352,"title":353,"description":354,"tip":355},3,"Define the scope of authorized disclosure","Review the itemized scope-of-information clause and check or edit each category to match what you actually need for the role. For regulated positions (finance, healthcare, childcare), include specific categories such as disciplinary history and license status.","Narrower scope increases the likelihood that reference providers will respond fully — overly broad language causes legal teams to advise silence.",{"step":357,"title":358,"description":359,"tip":360},4,"Include any third-party screening agencies as authorized recipients","If a background screening firm will conduct the reference check on your behalf, name the firm explicitly in the authorization-of-recipient clause. Add a separate FCRA-compliant disclosure and authorization if the firm qualifies as a consumer reporting agency.","If you are not sure whether your screening vendor is a consumer reporting agency under FCRA, ask them directly — misclassification creates material compliance liability.",{"step":362,"title":363,"description":364,"tip":365},5,"Set the authorization duration","Choose a specific expiration period — 90 days is standard for single-position hiring; 180 days is appropriate for extended or phased hiring processes. Enter the number in the duration clause.","For candidates in the EU or Canada, cap the authorization at 90 days maximum to align with data minimization principles under GDPR and PIPEDA.",{"step":367,"title":368,"description":369,"tip":370},6,"Review the governing law clause","Set the governing jurisdiction to the state or province where the candidate will perform the role — not necessarily where your company is headquartered. Cross-check that the chosen jurisdiction does not have specific reference check restrictions that require additional disclosures.","California requires a separate standalone authorization disclosure for background checks conducted by third-party agencies — bundle it with this release rather than creating two separate documents.",{"step":372,"title":373,"description":374,"tip":375},7,"Obtain a dated, identity-verified signature before contacting references","Present the release to the candidate after an offer is conditionally extended or at the point you are ready to begin reference checks. Collect a wet or electronic signature with a timestamp and retain the executed copy in the candidate's hiring file.","Use Business in a Box eSign to collect a timestamped, legally attributable electronic signature and store the executed document in BIB Drive automatically.",{"step":377,"title":378,"description":379,"tip":380},8,"Retain the executed release in the hiring file","Store the signed release with the candidate's application materials for a minimum of the period required by applicable employment records law — typically 1–3 years post-hire decision in the US and Canada.","If you decline to hire the candidate based partly on reference information, document the adverse action notice requirements under FCRA or applicable provincial law before closing the file.",[382,386,390,394,398,402],{"mistake":383,"why_it_matters":384,"fix":385},"Contacting references before obtaining a signed release","In many jurisdictions, conducting a reference check without written consent exposes the employer to privacy law violations and, in the US, potential FCRA liability if a third-party agency is involved.","Make the signed release a mandatory step in your hiring workflow before any reference contact is initiated, and document the date the authorization was received.",{"mistake":387,"why_it_matters":388,"fix":389},"Using an undated or unsigned authorization form","An undated release cannot be used to prove the check was authorized before disclosure occurred, undermining your defense in any privacy or defamation claim.","Always capture both the candidate's signature and the exact date of signing — use eSign tools that timestamp execution automatically.",{"mistake":391,"why_it_matters":392,"fix":393},"Omitting the good-faith qualifier from the liability release","A release that purports to protect knowingly false or malicious statements is void as against public policy in most common-law jurisdictions, which can render the entire liability clause unenforceable.","Include explicit 'good faith' and 'without malice' qualifiers on the liability release clause so that it survives judicial scrutiny.",{"mistake":395,"why_it_matters":396,"fix":397},"Failing to name third-party screening agencies as authorized recipients","Under FCRA and equivalent provincial laws, authorization must specifically cover consumer reporting agencies — a general employer authorization does not extend to them automatically.","Identify any third-party screening vendor by name in the authorized-recipient clause and attach the required FCRA standalone disclosure if the vendor qualifies as a consumer reporting agency.",{"mistake":399,"why_it_matters":400,"fix":401},"Setting no expiration on the authorization","An open-ended release allows the employer to conduct reference checks months or years after the candidate signed it, for positions the candidate never applied for — a direct conflict with GDPR, PIPEDA, and reasonable privacy expectations.","Set a specific expiration date of 90–180 days from signature and obtain a fresh authorization for any subsequent hiring process.",{"mistake":403,"why_it_matters":404,"fix":405},"Using the same release form for both employment references and consumer background checks","FCRA requires a separate, standalone disclosure and authorization document for consumer reports — combining it with other terms can render the FCRA authorization invalid and expose the employer to statutory damages.","Use this template for peer and supervisor reference checks, and a separate FCRA-compliant authorization form for any check conducted by a consumer reporting agency.",[407,410,413,416,419,422,425,428,431],{"question":408,"answer":409},"What is a reference request and release form?","A reference request and release form is a signed legal document in which a job candidate authorizes named prior employers, supervisors, and contacts to disclose employment-related information to a prospective employer. It simultaneously releases those reference providers from liability for honest statements made during the check. Without a signed release, employers and HR teams risk privacy law violations by contacting references, and reference givers lack a documented protection against defamation claims.\n",{"question":411,"answer":412},"Is a reference release legally required before contacting a reference?","In the United States, a written reference authorization is not universally required by federal law for informal peer references — but it is required under FCRA when a third-party consumer reporting agency conducts the check. In Canada, PIPEDA requires consent before collecting personal information, including employment references. In the EU and UK, GDPR and the UK GDPR require a lawful basis for processing — typically explicit consent — before reference information is gathered. Obtaining a signed release is best practice regardless of jurisdiction.\n",{"question":414,"answer":415},"What information can a former employer legally disclose during a reference check?","With a signed release in place, a former employer can typically disclose job title, dates of employment, responsibilities, performance assessments, attendance, reason for departure, and eligibility for rehire. Without a release — or in jurisdictions with strict reference check restrictions — many employers limit disclosure to title and dates only to avoid defamation exposure. A signed release with a good-faith liability clause gives reference providers the confidence to respond more fully.\n",{"question":417,"answer":418},"Does a reference release protect employers from defamation claims?","A well-drafted release provides meaningful but not absolute protection. It protects reference givers from claims arising from good-faith, honest statements. Qualified privilege, available in most common-law jurisdictions, provides additional protection for employment references made without malice. Neither the release nor qualified privilege shields a reference provider who makes statements they know to be false or who acts with deliberate intent to harm the candidate.\n",{"question":420,"answer":421},"Can a candidate refuse to sign a reference release?","Yes, a candidate can refuse to sign. An employer cannot legally compel signature. However, the employer is generally within their rights to withdraw a conditional offer or decline to proceed with a candidacy if the release is a standard part of the hiring process and the candidate refuses. This should be handled consistently — applying the requirement to all candidates in a role class to avoid discrimination claims.\n",{"question":423,"answer":424},"How long should a reference authorization remain valid?","Standard practice is 90 to 180 days from the date of signature. Ninety days is appropriate for most single-position hiring processes. One hundred eighty days suits extended or phased hiring programs. Under GDPR and PIPEDA data minimization principles, authorizations should not be open-ended — once the hiring decision is made or the authorization expires, a new consent must be obtained before any further reference inquiries are made for a different position.\n",{"question":426,"answer":427},"What is the difference between a reference release and a background check authorization?","A reference release authorizes specific named individuals to discuss their personal knowledge of the candidate's employment history and performance. A background check authorization — particularly one governed by FCRA in the US — authorizes a consumer reporting agency to compile a report that may include criminal records, credit history, driving records, and employment verification from databases. FCRA requires the background check authorization to be a separate, standalone document; combining it with a reference release can invalidate the FCRA consent.\n",{"question":429,"answer":430},"Can a reference release be signed electronically?","Yes. In the US, the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act (ESIGN) and state UETA adoptions make electronic signatures legally equivalent to wet signatures for employment documents including reference releases. Canada's PIPEDA and provincial e-signature laws, the UK's Electronic Communications Act, and EU eIDAS regulation similarly recognize electronic signatures. Use a platform that records a timestamp and links the signature to an identified individual to ensure the authorization is attributable and auditable.\n",{"question":432,"answer":433},"Should the reference release name individual reference providers or just authorize the employer to contact any reference?","Naming specific individuals in a Schedule A provides clearer protection for both parties. It limits the scope of the authorization to people the candidate has consented to, reduces the risk of the employer contacting unauthorized parties, and gives each named reference provider explicit documentation of their authorization. A generic authorization to contact 'any former employer' is weaker legally and may cause cautious HR departments to decline participation without a named individual release.\n",[435,439,443,447,451,455],{"industry":436,"icon_asset_id":437,"specifics":438},"Financial Services","industry-fintech","Regulatory requirements under FINRA and FCA mandate reference checks for licensed roles — a signed release with explicit scope covering disciplinary history and license status is essential documentation for compliance audits.",{"industry":440,"icon_asset_id":441,"specifics":442},"Healthcare","industry-healthtech","Credentialing bodies and state licensing boards require documented reference authorization before verifying clinical performance history — the release must cover malpractice and disciplinary proceedings where permitted.",{"industry":444,"icon_asset_id":445,"specifics":446},"Professional Services","industry-professional-services","Law firms, accounting firms, and consulting practices use reference releases to authorize checks on professional conduct, client relationships, and engagement performance for senior hires where discretion and client confidentiality are paramount.",{"industry":448,"icon_asset_id":449,"specifics":450},"Technology / SaaS","industry-saas","Fast-moving hiring pipelines and distributed reference providers across multiple jurisdictions make a standardized, electronically signable release critical for maintaining both compliance and hiring velocity.",{"industry":452,"icon_asset_id":453,"specifics":454},"Education","industry-education","Schools and universities conducting reference checks on staff working with minors require releases that explicitly authorize disclosure of safeguarding-related information, subject to applicable child protection laws.",{"industry":456,"icon_asset_id":457,"specifics":458},"Staffing and Recruitment","industry-staffing","Staffing agencies place candidates across multiple client employers and must ensure the release names each prospective client employer or grants broad enough authorization to cover all parties in the placement chain.",[460,463,466,469],{"vs":251,"vs_template_id":461,"summary":462},"employment-reference-letter-D507","An employment reference letter is a written statement provided by a former employer describing a candidate's performance and character. A reference request and release is the authorization document that must precede any reference check — it enables the letter or phone reference to happen lawfully. The release protects the reference giver; the letter is the substantive output.",{"vs":239,"vs_template_id":464,"summary":465},"D{BACKGROUND_CHECK_AUTH_ID}","A background check authorization governs checks conducted by a consumer reporting agency — covering criminal records, credit, and database searches — and must comply with FCRA as a standalone document in the US. A reference request and release covers peer and supervisor interviews and employment verification. Combining them into one document can invalidate the FCRA consent, so both documents are needed for comprehensive pre-employment screening.",{"vs":255,"vs_template_id":467,"summary":468},"employment-verification-letter-D13360","An employment verification letter confirms factual employment data — dates, title, and sometimes salary — without any performance assessment. A reference request and release authorizes a much broader conversation including performance, conduct, and eligibility for rehire. Organizations that provide only verification letters without a release do so to minimize liability; a signed release opens the door to more substantive information.",{"vs":470,"vs_template_id":471,"summary":472},"Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA)","non-disclosure-agreement-nda-D12692","An NDA restricts the receiving party from disclosing confidential information they have been given access to. A reference release does the opposite — it authorizes disclosure of information that would otherwise be private. The two documents serve opposite purposes, though some employers include a confidentiality obligation on the receiving employer within the release to protect reference content from being circulated beyond the hiring team.",{"use_template":474,"template_plus_review":478,"custom_drafted":482},{"best_for":475,"cost":476,"time":477},"Standard domestic reference checks for non-regulated roles where all parties are in the same jurisdiction","Free","15–20 minutes per candidate",{"best_for":479,"cost":480,"time":481},"Multi-jurisdiction hiring, regulated industries such as financial services or healthcare, or senior roles with material liability exposure","$200–$500 for an employment lawyer review","1–3 days",{"best_for":483,"cost":484,"time":485},"Enterprise hiring programs, staffing agencies placing hundreds of candidates across multiple jurisdictions, or organizations subject to FCRA enforcement scrutiny","$800–$2,500+","1–2 weeks",[487,492,497,502],{"code":488,"name":489,"flag_asset_id":490,"note":491},"us","United States","flag-us","FCRA governs reference checks conducted by third-party consumer reporting agencies and requires a standalone written authorization — separate from this release — before the agency may act. Many states have additional reference check laws; California, New York, and Colorado restrict the use of certain information (e.g., salary history, conviction records) even with a release in place. Qualified privilege protects employers providing good-faith references in most states, but the scope varies — some states require the candidate's signed consent to activate the privilege.",{"code":493,"name":494,"flag_asset_id":495,"note":496},"ca","Canada","flag-ca","PIPEDA and provincial privacy statutes (including Quebec's Law 25, Alberta's PIPA, and BC's PIPA) require meaningful consent before collecting personal information — a signed reference release satisfies this requirement. Quebec's Law 25 imposes stricter consent and data minimization standards, including a requirement to disclose the purpose of collection in plain language. Authorization should be capped at 90 days to align with data minimization principles. French-language versions of the release are required for Quebec-based candidates under the Charter of the French Language.",{"code":498,"name":499,"flag_asset_id":500,"note":501},"uk","United Kingdom","flag-uk","UK GDPR requires a lawful basis for processing personal data — explicit consent via a signed release is the most practical basis for reference checks involving third parties. Reference providers have qualified privilege under UK defamation law for honest, good-faith references. The Information Commissioner's Office employment practices code recommends that reference requests be specific and proportionate to the role. Retention of signed releases should not exceed the period necessary for the hiring decision, typically one year post-decision.",{"code":503,"name":504,"flag_asset_id":505,"note":506},"eu","European Union","flag-eu","GDPR Article 6 requires a lawful basis for processing reference data — consent under Article 6(1)(a) is appropriate when the candidate has genuine freedom to refuse without detriment. Article 13 requires the prospective employer to provide a privacy notice to the candidate at the time of collecting the authorization, explaining the purpose, retention period, and data subject rights. Cross-border transfers of reference data outside the EU/EEA require additional safeguards under Chapter V of GDPR. Member state implementations vary — Germany and France impose particularly strict employment privacy protections beyond GDPR's baseline.",[252,256,508,471,509,510,511,512,240,513,514,511],"employment-agreement_at-will-employee-D541","job-offer-letter-long-D12769","independent-contractor-agreement-D160","employee-dismissal-letter-D508","employee-handbook-D712","fixed-term-contract-D13225","executive-employment-agreement-D543",{"emit_how_to":201,"emit_defined_term":201},{"primary_folder":102,"secondary_folder":517,"document_type":518,"industry":519,"business_stage":520,"tags":521,"confidence":527},"offboarding-and-references","form","general","all-stages",[522,523,524,525,526],"employment","hiring","reference-check","authorization","liability-release",0.95,"\u003Ch2>What is a Reference Request and Release?\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>A \u003Cstrong>Reference Request and Release\u003C/strong> is a legally binding authorization document through which a job candidate grants a prospective employer written permission to contact named prior employers, supervisors, and professional references to obtain employment-related information. The document simultaneously releases those reference providers from liability for good-faith disclosures made in the course of the check. Unlike a casual verbal authorization, a signed release creates a documented legal record of consent, specifies the categories of information that may be discussed, limits disclosure to identified recipients, and sets an expiration date on the authorization — satisfying the consent requirements of privacy legislation in the US, Canada, the UK, and the EU.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Why You Need This Document\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Conducting a reference check without a signed authorization exposes your organization to privacy law violations, potential FCRA liability when third-party screening firms are involved, and GDPR or PIPEDA enforcement risk for any cross-border hiring. Reference providers who receive a request without documented authorization from the candidate typically decline to provide anything beyond dates and title — leaving you with the least useful information at the most critical decision point in your hiring process. A signed release changes that dynamic: it gives reference providers the legal confidence to speak candidly, it protects them against defamation claims, and it gives your organization a defensible paper trail if a hiring decision is later challenged. This template provides a complete, jurisdiction-aware starting point that covers both the inbound authorization from the candidate and the outbound request sent to reference providers — so every reference check your team conducts is documented, compliant, and protected.\u003C/p>\n",1781186026866]