About this Handbook

An About this Handbook policy (sometimes called a Disclaimer) explains the purpose and limits of your employee handbook, confirms it is not an employment contract, preserves at-will employment where permitted, and reserves your organization's right to update or discontinue policies to stay compliant with applicable laws.

How to Write an About this Handbook Policy

• Start with "why" and introduce the concept.
• Explain what the handbook covers and set expectations that it is a general guide, not an exhaustive resource.
• Tell employees where to direct questions about the handbook and its policies.
• State that employment is at-will and clarify that the handbook is not an employment contract or a guarantee of continued employment.
• Reserve your organization's right to change, replace, or end policies, procedures, and benefits, and explain that employees are responsible for following the most current version.
• Confirm the handbook is intended to align with applicable laws and that legal requirements control if there is a conflict.

For advice on writing an About this Handbook policy in a specific jurisdiction, see below.