Offer Letter vs Appointment Letter Key Differences Explained
An offer letter is an employer’s initial invitation to a candidate, spelling out proposed role, pay, and start date. An appointment letter follows acceptance; it confirms final employment terms and officially places the person on payroll.
People swap the terms because both arrive in the inbox and mention salary. Yet they serve different moments: one asks “Will you join us?” while the other says “Welcome aboard, your seat is ready.”
Key Differences
Offer Letter: conditional, revocable, outlines tentative benefits. Appointment Letter: unconditional, legally binding, includes final designation, reporting structure, and joining formalities.
Which One Should You Choose?
You don’t choose—you receive. Candidates act on the offer letter; HR issues the appointment letter after signatures. Keep both for onboarding clarity.
Examples and Daily Life
Imagine receiving an email titled “Congratulations, you’re selected!”—that’s the offer letter. Two weeks later, another titled “Welcome to the team”—appointment letter attached.
Can an offer letter be withdrawn?
Yes, until you sign and return it, employers may revoke without legal obligation.
Is an appointment letter the contract?
It forms a major part; the full contract may reference policies and annexures.