An assignment agreement is a legal document that transfers rights, responsibilities, and benefits from one party (the “assignor”) to another (the “assignee”). You can use it to reassign debt, real estate, intellectual property, leases, insurance policies, and government contracts.
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What Is an Assignment Agreement?
An assignment agreement effectively transfers the rights and obligations of a person or entity under an initial contract to another. The original party is the assignor, and the assignee takes on the contract’s duties and benefits.
It’s often a requirement to let the other party in the original deal know the contract is being transferred. It’s essential to create this form thoughtfully, as a poorly written assignment agreement may leave the assignor obligated to certain aspects of the deal.
The most common use of an assignment agreement occurs when the assignor no longer can or wants to continue with a contract. Instead of leaving the initial party or breaking the agreement, the assignor can transfer the contract to another individual or entity.
For example, imagine a small residential trash collection service plans to close its operations. Before it closes, the business brokers a deal to send its accounts to a curbside pickup company providing similar services. After notifying account holders, the latter company continues the service while receiving payment.
What to Include in an Assignment Agreement
Create a thorough assignment agreement by including the following information:
- Effective Date: The document must indicate when the transfer of rights and obligations occurs.
- Parties: Include the full name and address of the assignor, assignee, and obligor (if required).
- Assignment: Provide details that identify the original contract being assigned.
- Third-Party Approval: If the initial contract requires the approval of the obligor, note the date the approval was received.
- Signatures: Both parties must sign and date the printed assignment contract template once completed. If a notary is required, wait until you are in the presence of the official and present identification before signing. Failure to do so may result in having to redo the assignment contract.
How to Assign a Contract
Review the Contract Terms
Carefully review the terms of the existing contract. Some contracts may have specific provisions regarding assignment. Check for any restrictions or requirements related to assigning the contract.
Check for Anti-Assignment Clauses
Some contracts include anti-assignment clauses that prohibit or restrict the ability to assign the contract without the consent of the other party. If there’s such a clause, you may need the consent of the original parties to proceed.
Determine Assignability
Ensure that the contract is assignable. Some contracts, especially those involving personal services or unique skills, may not be assignable without the other party’s agreement.
Get Consent from the Other Party (if Required)
If the contract includes an anti-assignment clause or requires consent for assignment, seek written consent from the other party. This can often be done through a formal amendment to the contract.
Prepare an Assignment Agreement
Draft an assignment agreement that clearly outlines the transfer of rights and obligations from the assignor (the party assigning the contract) to the assignee (the party receiving the assignment). Include details such as the names of the parties, the effective date of the assignment, and the specific rights and obligations being transferred.
Include Original Contract Information
Attach a copy of the original contract or reference its key terms in the assignment agreement. This helps in clearly identifying the contract being assigned.
Execution of the Assignment Agreement
Both the assignor and assignee should sign the assignment agreement. Signatures should be notarized if required by the contract or local laws.
Notice to the Other Party
Provide notice of the assignment to the non-assigning party. This can be done formally through a letter or as specified in the contract.
File the Assignment
File the assignment agreement with the appropriate parties or entities as required. This may include filing with the original contracting party or relevant government authorities.
Communicate with Third Parties
Inform any relevant third parties, such as suppliers, customers, or service providers, about the assignment to ensure a smooth transition.
Keep Copies for Records
Keep copies of the assignment agreement, original contract, and any related communications for your records.
How to Write an Assignment Agreement
Here’s a list of steps on how to write an assignment agreement:
Step 1 – List the Assignor’s and Assignee’s Details
List all of the pertinent information regarding the parties involved in the transfer. This information includes their full names, addresses, phone numbers, and other relevant contact information.
This step clarifies who’s transferring the initial contract and who will take on its responsibilities.
Step 2 – Provide Original Contract Information
Describing and identifying the contract that is effectively being reassigned is essential. This step avoids any confusion after the transfer has been completed.
Step 3 – State the Consideration
Provide accurate information regarding the amount the assignee pays to assume the contract. This figure should include taxes and any relevant peripheral expenses. If the assignee will pay the consideration over a period, indicate the method and installments.
Step 4 – Provide Any Terms and Conditions
The terms and conditions of any agreement are crucial to a smooth transaction. You must cover issues such as dispute resolution, governing law, obligor approval, and any relevant clauses.
Step 5 – Obtain Signatures
Both parties must sign the agreement to ensure it is legally binding and that they have read and understood the contract. If a notary is required, wait to sign off in their presence.
Assignment Agreement Sample
