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Memorandum of understanding template

A memorandum of understanding, or MOU, records that two or more people or organizations intend to work together, and sets out the plan. It is usually a statement of intentions rather than a contract, which makes it quicker to agree and easier to sign than a full agreement.

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Before you sign
  1. Decide whether you want a plan or a promise. An MOU is usually a plan.
  2. Write the purpose and goals in plain words.
  3. Say who does what, and by when.
  4. Choose which clauses, if any, are binding, such as confidentiality.
  5. Everyone reads the same final version, signs and keeps a copy.

Step 1 of 6: The parties

The parties

The parties

Between 2 and 4 parties.

  1. Party 1
  2. Party 2

Things to check before you sign

  • CheckA memorandum of understanding is usually a statement of intentions. Courts look at what a document says and does, not at its title, so be clear about what is and isn't binding.

How it works

  1. Fill in

    Type your details. Leave anything blank and it prints as a line to write on.

  2. Check the preview

    The page on the right updates as you type, exactly as it will print.

  3. Download

    Save a PDF or Word file, or print it. Nothing is sent to us.

A memorandum of understanding, or MOU, records that two or more people or organizations intend to work together, and sets out the plan. It is usually a statement of intentions rather than a contract, which makes it quicker to agree and easier to sign than a full agreement.

What it is

An MOU describes what the parties want to achieve, who does what and when. Most MOUs are written to be non-binding: the parties intend to follow the plan, but nobody can sue if it falls through. Some clauses, such as confidentiality or exclusivity, can be made binding on purpose. Courts look at what a document says and does, not at its title, so an MOU with firm promises and clear terms may be enforced even if it is called an MOU. For that reason this template keeps the two apart. It uses words of intention for the plan, and it marks the clauses that are binding. If you need promises you can enforce, a contract is usually a better fit.

What to include

  • The names, addresses and contact people for every party.
  • The purpose and the goals.
  • The role and contribution of each party.
  • How decisions will be made.
  • The start date, the expiry date and any milestones.
  • Who pays what, or that each pays their own costs.
  • A confidentiality clause, if you will share sensitive information.
  • An exclusivity clause, if it is part of the deal.
  • A clear statement of what is and isn't binding.
  • How to change or step back from the MOU.
  • Signatures from everyone, with their titles.

How to fill it in

  1. Add every party and a contact for each.
  2. Write the purpose in a few plain sentences, then list the goals.
  3. Say what each party will do and contribute.
  4. Set the start date, the expiry date and any milestones.
  5. Choose how decisions are made.
  6. Decide which clauses, if any, you want to be binding, such as confidentiality.
  7. Read the checks panel, then read the preview together.
  8. Download the file, sign it and keep a copy each.

Common mistakes

  • Writing firm promises such as "will" and "must" in a document you meant to be non-binding.
  • Not saying which clauses are binding.
  • Using an MOU when money or serious commitments are involved.
  • Leaving out an expiry date, so it lingers for ever.
  • Sharing sensitive information without a binding confidentiality clause.
  • Being vague about who does what.
  • Signing before everyone has read the same final version.

MOU or contract?

MOU

  • Records intentions and a plan.
  • Usually not binding.
  • Quick to agree.
  • Good for early stages and partnerships.

Contract

  • Creates promises you can enforce.
  • Covers price and delivery in detail.
  • Needs more care.
  • Good when money or serious commitments are involved.

Frequently asked questions

Is a memorandum of understanding legally binding?

Usually not, but it depends on what it says. Courts look at the wording and the intent of the parties, not the title. A document with firm promises and clear terms can be enforced, and clauses such as confidentiality can be made binding on purpose.

What is the difference between an MOU and a contract?

A contract creates promises you can enforce in court. An MOU normally records intentions and a plan. If you need something you can enforce, use a contract.

Can part of an MOU be binding?

Yes. Parties often make confidentiality, exclusivity or cost clauses binding and leave the rest as a statement of intentions. The document should say clearly which clauses are binding.

What is the difference between an MOU and a letter of intent?

They are close cousins. An MOU usually says more about roles and timing, while a letter of intent often sets out the terms of a planned deal. Both are usually non-binding apart from chosen clauses.

Does an MOU need an expiry date?

It is wise to set one, and a review date too. They stop an old MOU from lingering and make it clear when the plan is over.

Who should sign an MOU?

Someone with authority to speak for each party. For an organization, check who can sign, and put their title next to their name.

Should we get legal advice?

If money, exclusivity or valuable information is involved, yes. This is a general template, not legal advice.

Last reviewed October 5, 2026

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This page gives general information and a template. It is not legal advice.

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