Offer Letter vs Appointment Letter: What Is the Difference?
An offer letter and an appointment letter are not the same. Here is when you get each one, what they must include, and what to check before signing.
By Raaz sharma. Published 2 Nov 2026. 2 min read.
The short answer: an offer letter is sent before you join and offers you the job with the main terms — role, salary and joining date. An appointment letter is given when or after you join and confirms your employment with detailed terms such as probation, notice period, working hours and company rules.
Side-by-side comparison
| Offer letter | Appointment letter | |
|---|---|---|
| When | After selection, before joining | On or after joining day |
| Purpose | Offers the job | Confirms employment and terms |
| Detail | Main terms: role, salary, joining date | Full terms: probation, notice, hours, leave, rules |
| Your action | Accept by signing or replying | Sign a copy and keep the original |
What an offer letter should include
- Company name, address and letterhead
- Your name and job title
- Salary (CTC and ideally the monthly break-up)
- Joining date and work location
- Deadline to accept
- Signature of an authorised person
What an appointment letter should include
- Designation, department and reporting manager
- Salary structure — see CTC vs in-hand salary
- Probation period and confirmation — see probation period explained
- Notice period — see notice period explained
- Working hours, leave policy and benefits (PF, ESIC, insurance)
- Confidentiality and code of conduct
Some small companies issue one letter that covers both. That is fine as long as the key terms are written.
What to check before signing
- Salary matches what was discussed, including in-hand pay.
- Any bond or penalty clause — understand it before signing.
- Notice period and probation length.
- Your name, role and joining date are correct.
Spotting a fake offer letter
- Asks you to pay a fee for training, documents or "confirmation"
- Sent from a Gmail or Yahoo address for a big company
- Spelling mistakes, a blurry logo, no company address or CIN
- You were "selected" without an interview
Read how to identify a fake job offer for a 5-minute verification checklist.
Frequently asked questions
Is an offer letter a guarantee of a job?
It is a formal offer, but employment is confirmed when you join and receive your appointment letter. Keep written communication of acceptance.
Can a company withdraw an offer letter?
It can happen, though it is uncommon. Keep a copy of the signed offer and all emails, and do not resign from a current job before you have a written offer.
Is a joining letter the same as an appointment letter?
Usually yes. Some companies call the appointment letter a joining letter.
Should I resign before getting an offer letter?
No. Resign only after receiving and accepting a written offer letter.
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