Before signing a contract or settlement
A short review to identify questions before agreeing.
6 min read · Sources checked on
What to keep in mind
- Identify the document and what it states.
- Signing, receiving a copy and payment are different.
- “Not agreed” does not replace a timely claim.
General guidance for employees in Spain. The collective agreement, employment relationship and circumstances can change the answer. Seek employment advice for a specific dispute or deadline.
Documents do not all say the same thing
Before looking for the signature line, identify what your signature confirms. Read attachments, dates and statements about payment or resignation. “Company paperwork” does not explain its effects.
Contract or amendment
Describes working conditions. Compare duties, hours, pay and location with what was agreed.
Receipt or final settlement
Check which amounts it settles and whether it states that you have received them. Verify actual payment.
Voluntary resignation
States your decision to leave. Do not confuse it with receiving a dismissal notice.
Read the whole document
Distinguish a contract, amendment, receipt, settlement and resignation. Check dates and statements match what happened. Ask for time and an explanation; do not sign blanks.
Check conditions
For a contract, check role, duties, workplace, hours, schedule, gross pay, agreement, duration, temporary reason and probation. For settlement, request a breakdown and check what was actually paid.
Keep evidence and seek support
Request a readable copy and keep the delivery date. Seek prompt advice if there is disagreement, pressure or termination. Writing “not agreed” does not replace a claim or guarantee all rights by itself.
Explore a worked example
At the end of a campaign, someone receives a “voluntary resignation” document although they did not decide to leave.
How to interpret it
The written reason can affect claims and unemployment protection. It is not merely an acknowledgement of receipt.
A useful next step
Request a copy and clarification of the real reason; seek advice promptly before deadlines expire.
My preparation checklist
Your data stays in this browser. No account is needed. On a shared device, keep your copy and delete your data when finished. Do not include identity documents or other people's private information.