Potential employer is paying you to relocate, is it wise to ask for a contract?

[SSSnail]

So they're paying you to move, should you ask for at least a contract for how long the position at the particular location should be for? Like 1-2 years? I thought that is pretty much standard right?

 

[PricklyPete]

I've never heard of it being "standard".

 

[SunnyD]

Is it a temporary move?

 

[DAGTA]

Many employers do the opposite. If they are paying for the move, you sign a contract saying you will stay at least one year or reimburse the moving expenses.

 

[Jeeebus]

How in the fuck are these two subjects related (unless it's the employer asking for a certain length of commitment - not vice versa)?

 

[spidey07]

Many employers do the opposite. If they are paying for the move, you sign a contract saying you will stay at least one year or reimburse the moving expenses.

Right. It's normally the other way around. Your employment contract says if you fail probation or really screw up you're fired AND you have to pay back the moving expenses. Same if you leave voluntarily, you gotta pay back any and all moving expenses.

Also don't forget about the big tax implications that go along with moving compensation.

 

[SSSnail]

Well, reason I asked is because the last time an employer sent me somewhere, they drafted a contract that would guarantee the position at that location for at least a year with the option to extend.

Of course, if I screw up then I'd have to repay any compensations awarded in relation to the move. Yeah, tax was a killer, but luckily I was an expat so it evens out.

 

[EagleKeeper]

Well, reason I asked is because the last time an employer sent me somewhere, they drafted a contract that would guarantee the position at that location for at least a year with the option to extend.

Of course, if I screw up then I'd have to repay any compensations awarded in relation to the move. Yeah, tax was a killer, but luckily I was an expat so it evens out.

Were you already employed at the time by that employer?

All the times I have been relocated, the offer letter has indicated that expenses are to be paid back if I voluntarily leave the company within a year. Offers that have a signing bonus also have had the same verbage.

When relocating to a new office for an existing employer, nothing has been stated other than the companies usual relo policy.

Funds that are paid directly to another company are not taxable. Those that are paid to you are. IRS rules.
Some employers may cover the taxes on such - that is between you and them.