Can a job hire you then change their mind?

Asked by: Connor O'Connell  |  Last update: January 29, 2026
Score: 4.3/5 (63 votes)

Yes, a company can legally change its mind and rescind a job offer after you've accepted it, especially in "at-will" employment states, but it's often after you've accepted and often for reasons like failed background checks, budget cuts, or discovering inconsistencies. While an accepted offer can feel like a contract, it's typically contingent on pre-employment conditions, and employers can often withdraw it unless you have a signed employment contract guaranteeing the job.

Can an employer change their mind after hiring you?

They say, ``Take it or leave it.'' THE LEGAL GIST: Once an employment contract is accepted, the employer cannot unilaterally change the terms without your consent. Any change must be agreed to by both parties, otherwise, it is a breach of contract, and as such, can be challenged and damages claimed.

Can you accept a job and then decline?

Yes -- you can decline a job offer after previously accepting it. Do it promptly, professionally, and with consideration for legal and reputational consequences. Act immediately: notify the employer as soon as you decide to withdraw; sooner reduces disruption and preserves relationships.

What is the 3 month rule in a job?

The "3-month rule" in a job refers to the common probationary period where both employer and employee assess fit, acting as a trial to see if the role and person align before full commitment, often involving learning goals (like a 30-60-90 day plan) and performance reviews, allowing either party to end employment more easily, notes Talent Management Institute (TMI), Frontline Source Group, Indeed.com, and Talent Management Institute (TMI). It's a crucial time for onboarding, understanding expectations, and demonstrating capability, setting the foundation for future growth, says Talent Management Institute (TMI), inTulsa Talent, and Talent Management Institute (TMI). 

Can you rescind a job acceptance?

Yes, you can accept a job offer and then back out, as most employment is "at-will," but it's unprofessional, can burn bridges, and might have consequences if you signed a binding contract (rare) or have a non-compete clause. Communicate immediately with the employer, be tactful and apologetic, and do it as soon as you decide to avoid harming your reputation, though it's generally better to back out before starting than to quit shortly after. 

Can I Back Out After Signing An Offer - Changing Your Mind on a Job Offer (Ask A Recruiter)

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Can you be sued for rescinding a job offer?

Breach of Contract: If an individual can prove a contractual relationship, above and beyond an employment at-will relationship, they may have a cause of action for breach of contract against an employer when an offer is unexpectedly withdrawn.

Can you backout after accepting a job offer?

Yes, you can accept a job offer and then back out, as most employment is "at-will," but it's unprofessional, can burn bridges, and might have consequences if you signed a binding contract (rare) or have a non-compete clause. Communicate immediately with the employer, be tactful and apologetic, and do it as soon as you decide to avoid harming your reputation, though it's generally better to back out before starting than to quit shortly after. 

Is it rude to leave a job after 3 months?

While many professionals recommend working for an organization for at least one year before pursuing another opportunity, there are certainly valid reasons for leaving a job sooner. Some other reasons professionals may choose to exit a company after three months include: Being offered another job with a higher salary.

What is the 70 rule of hiring?

The 70% rule of hiring is a guideline suggesting you should apply for jobs or hire candidates if they meet about 70% of the listed requirements, focusing on trainable skills and potential rather than a perfect match, which often leads to better hires by bringing fresh perspectives and fostering growth, while also preventing paralysis by analysis for both applicants and recruiters. It encourages focusing on core competencies, transferable skills, and a candidate's eagerness to learn the remaining 30%. 

Can a job fire you in the first 90 days?

In most U.S. states, employment is at-will, which means an employer can terminate an employee at any time, with or without cause, as long as it's not for discriminatory reasons. This could happen during the 90-day probationary period, or any time after the probation as well.

What is the 7 second rule in resume?

The "7-second resume rule" means recruiters scan resumes in about 7 seconds to decide if a candidate is a potential fit, looking for key info like skills, keywords, and achievements, often through an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) first. To pass this quick test, your resume needs clear formatting, a strong summary, quantifiable achievements with action verbs, relevant keywords, and to be tailored for the specific job, making it easy to spot your value quickly.
 

Can you change your mind once you've accepted a job offer?

Yes, you can accept a job offer and then back out, as most employment is "at-will," but it's unprofessional, can burn bridges, and might have consequences if you signed a binding contract (rare) or have a non-compete clause. Communicate immediately with the employer, be tactful and apologetic, and do it as soon as you decide to avoid harming your reputation, though it's generally better to back out before starting than to quit shortly after. 

How do you politely back out of a job offer?

How to politely decline a job offer

  1. Respond to the request promptly.
  2. Keep your email simple and to the point.
  3. Express your appreciation for the offer.
  4. Provide a reason but don't be too specific.
  5. Consider offering to stay in touch.
  6. Example 1: When you've accepted another job.
  7. Example 2: When the job isn't a good fit.

Can a job fire you right after they hire you?

Many workers are employed at will. That means the employer can fire them at any time, whether they have a reason or not. As long as the reason is not illegal (i.e., based on a protected class or action), it is typically legal.

Is it illegal to accept a job offer and then change your mind?

Technically, anyone can turn down a job offer, back out of a job already started, or renege on an acceptance at any point. Most states operate with what is called “at will employment.” This means the employee and the employer are not in a binding contract.

Can I withdraw a job offer?

If the offer was conditional, you can also rescind a job offer at any time if it's found that the conditions set out in the offer haven't been met. These conditions can include: Failing to hold or provide qualifications specific to that job role. Not being able to provide satisfactory references.

What jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

You can earn $3,000 a month without a degree in roles like skilled trades (electrician, HVAC tech), healthcare support (dental/medical assistant), specialized driving (UPS, Amazon), sales, or through remote work in areas like tech support or content creation, often requiring short training programs, apprenticeships, certifications, or strong soft skills for success, with opportunities in both in-person and remote settings. 

How much does a $20 an hour employee cost an employer?

A $20/hour employee costs an employer roughly $25 to $28 per hour, or $52,000 to $58,240 annually, by adding 25-40% for payroll taxes (FICA, unemployment) and benefits (insurance, PTO), though specific costs depend heavily on location, benefits, and industry, with total costs potentially reaching 1.4 times the base wage or more. 

What are the 3 C's of interviewing?

The "3 C's of Interviewing" vary slightly by source, but commonly refer to Confidence, Competence, and Credibility for candidates (showing you can do the job, have the right skills, and are believable) or Clarity, Confidence, and Commitment/Control/Chemistry for interviewers (setting clear expectations, projecting confidence in the role, and ensuring a good fit). For candidates, demonstrating these through specific examples helps prove you're the right person, while for interviewers, they guide a structured, effective assessment. 

How to quit a job you just started 1 month ago?

Writing a formal letter of resignation is the preferred method of quitting a job you just started. Those who know how long to give a new job before quitting may begin drafting such a letter ahead of their decision to quit so that they have a backup plan if conditions fail to improve.

Can I quit my job due to mental stress?

Before quitting a job for mental health, consider speaking with a therapist or counselor. Tell them about your workplace challenges. Ask them questions like, “Is quitting my job for mental health reasons okay?” or “What can I do to improve my situation?” These questions will give you more clarity before taking action.

Can you quit after accepting a job offer?

Yes, but it's important to do so thoughtfully and professionally. Circumstances change so just be honest, polite and timely in your communication. When should I resign after accepting a job offer? Wait until you've received and signed the written offer before submitting your resignation.

How do I withdraw an accepted job offer?

4 Tips to politely turn down a job offer after accepting

  1. Be sincere when you thank them for the offer.
  2. Get right to the point and tell them that you have to decline the offer.
  3. Give them a brief reason for why you are declining.
  4. Thank them again, and wish both the hiring manager and the company well.

What are the signs of career burnout?

In summary, it is important to watch the early warning signs of career burnout such as feeling withdrawn, sleep disruption (either sleeping too much or too little), loss of appetite, low mood and feeling somewhat helpless in the situation.

What is the 3 month rule for jobs?

The "3-month rule" in jobs usually refers to a probationary period, a standard trial phase (often 90 days) where employers assess a new hire's performance, skills, and cultural fit before granting permanent status, with easier termination for both parties during this time. It also signifies a common benchmark for new employees to feel truly productive and settled, understanding new tools, teams, and company dynamics. It allows companies to evaluate fit and employees to learn the ropes, often impacting benefits eligibility and job security until completed.