When you receive a settlement agreement (VSO), the pressure to sign quickly can be considerable. Employers often make it seem as though there is urgency or the offer is only temporary. Nevertheless, the law always provides you as an employee with an important protection: the 14-day reflection period.
In this article, we explain what that reflection period entails, how you can exercise it, and why it is so important for your rights.
What Does the 14-Day Reflection Period Entail?
The law stipulates that every employee who signs a VSO may withdraw their decision within 14 days without stating any reason. This is called the statutory reflection period.
Important to know:
You do not need to give a reason for the withdrawal.
The reflection period commences from the day you signed.
You must notify your employer of the withdrawal in writing.
Why Does the Reflection Period Exist?
The reflection period is intended to protect employees against hasty decisions. Many people feel pressured or sign out of uncertainty, when they actually need more time to consider the consequences or seek legal advice.
How Do You Use the Reflection Period?
Sign your VSO but change your mind afterwards? You can still rescind it within 14 days.
Send a written statement (by email or registered letter) to your employer declaring that you are revoking the agreement.
Keep proof of dispatch.
Example: An employee signed a VSO but discovered the next day that the payment was EUR 2,000 too low. He invoked the reflection period. Afterwards, with the help of a lawyer, he was able to renegotiate for a better deal.
Second Chance: 21-Day Reflection Period
If the employer does not state that a reflection period applies, the period is extended to 21 days. This gives you as an employee even more protection.
Practical Examples
Example 1: An employee signed under pressure and regretted it. Within 14 days, he withdrew his signature and subsequently received a better arrangement.
Example 2: A VSO did not mention the reflection period. The employee was therefore able to declare the agreement invalid even after 20 days.
Example 3: An employee thought he could rescind verbally. The UWV did not recognise this because there was no written proof.
Checklist: 14-Day Reflection Period
Note the date on which you signed.
Send a written withdrawal within 14 days if you have regrets.
Check whether the VSO mentions the reflection period.
If not, you have 21 days' reflection period.
Consult a lawyer for your new negotiation.
Common Mistakes
Thinking that verbal withdrawal is sufficient — this must be done in writing.
Forgetting that the period starts running from the date of signing.
Assuming that the reflection period does not apply — this is always legally mandatory.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Do I always have the right to 14 days' reflection period?
Yes, this is legally regulated for every employee who signs a VSO.
2. Do I have to give a reason to rescind the agreement?
No, you may withdraw your decision without any explanation.
3. What if my employer does not mention the reflection period?
Then a reflection period of 21 days applies.
4. Can I still get out of my signature after the reflection period?
Only in exceptional circumstances, for example in the case of coercion or misrepresentation.
5. Will I encounter problems with my unemployment benefits if I use the reflection period?
No, your employment contract simply continues and you retain your rights.
Why Arslan Advocaten?
Helping employees who regret their VSO
Guiding the withdrawal process and new negotiations
Checking whether the VSO correctly mentions the reflection period
Ensuring a better arrangement without risk to your unemployment benefits
Conclusion
The 14-day reflection period gives you the opportunity to reverse a hasty decision. Use this period wisely, especially if you have doubts about the terms of your VSO. With the right legal guidance, you can often still negotiate a better arrangement.