When you receive a settlement agreement (VSO), the pressure to sign quickly can be great. Employers often make it appear as if there is a rush or as if the offer is only temporary. However, the law always gives you as an employee an important protection: the 14 days of consideration.
In this article, we explain what this consideration period entails, how you can make use of it, and why this is so important for your rights.
What does the 14-day consideration period include?
The law stipulates that any employee who signs a VSO may change his decision within 14 days without giving reasons. This is called the legal period of consideration.
Important to know:
-
You don’t have to give a reason for revocation.
-
The consideration period starts from the day you signed.
-
You must give notice of the revocation in writing to your employer.
Why does the consideration period exist?
The consideration period is intended to protect employees from hasty decisions. Many people feel pressured or sign out of uncertainty, while they actually need more time to understand the consequences or to seek legal advice.
How do you use the consideration period?
-
Did you sign your VSO but changed your mind afterwards? Then you can revoke it within 14 days.
-
Send a written statement (either with an email or registered letter) to your employer stating that you are revoking the agreement.
-
Keep a proof of shipment.
👉 Example: An employee signed a VSO only to discover the next day that the compensation was € 2,000 too low. He revoked the agreement within the consideration period. Afterward, with the help of a lawyer, he was able to negotiate a better deal.
Second chance: 21 days of consideration
If the employer does not mention that there is a consideration period, the term is extended to 21 days. This gives you as an employee even more protection.
Examples from practice
-
Example 1: An employee signed under pressure and regretted it later. He retracted his signature within 14 days and afterward, got a better arrangement.
-
Example 2: The VSO did not mention the consideration period. As a result, the employee was able to declare the agreement invalid even after 20 days.
-
Example 3: An employee thought he could revoke the agreement verbally. However, UWV did not recognize this because there was no written proof.
Checklist: 14 days of consideration
-
📅 Write down the date you signed.
-
✍️ Send a written revocation within 14 days if you regret it.
-
📝 Check if the VSO mentions the consideration period.
-
⏳ If not? Then you have 21 days of consideration.
-
⚖️ Consult a lawyer before you start new negotiations.
Common mistakes
-
Thinking that oral revocation is enough → this has to be in writing.
-
Forgetting that the period starts running from the signing date.
-
Assuming that the consideration period does not apply → this is always legally mandatory.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Do I always have the right to 14 days of consideration?
Yes, this is legally arranged for every worker who signs a VSO.
2. Do I have to give a reason to revoke the agreement?
No, you can retract your decision without explanation.
3. What if my employer does not mention the consideration period?
Then a consideration period of 21 days is applicable.
4. Can I still retract my signature after the consideration period?
Only in exceptional cases, for instance, in the case of coercion or deception.
5. Will I have issues with my unemployment benefits (WW) if I utilize the consideration period?
No, your employment contract continues as usual and you retain your rights.
Why Arslan Lawyers?
-
Assist employees who regret their VSO
-
Guide in revocation and new negotiations
-
Check whether the VSO correctly states the consideration period
-
Ensure a better arrangement without risk to your unemployment benefits (WW)
Conclusion
The 14-day consideration period gives you the opportunity to reverse a rushed decision. Use this term wisely, especially if you are uncertain about the conditions of your VSO. With the right legal guidance, you can often negotiate a better arrangement.
