Do I have to accept a fixed term contract extension?

[oscarwinner]

Hello, I wonder if anyone can help me.

I have a 12 month contract which is up at the end of October this year. My bonus is tied to me completing the 12 months and if I give notice before the end of October, I will lose my right to claim the bonus.

My employers have given me a letter telling me that they want to extend my fixed term until the end of December this year.

I have got another job starting in November, so my question is do I need to write and state that I do not accept the 2 month extension, and does this count as 'notice'? The extension did not mention any acceptance criteria by me, it was unilateral in that regard.

My contract states that my notice period is 3 months. I am obviously keen to not lose out on my bonus entitlement, particulalrly when I have worked so hard for the past 10 months, but I am equally keen to leave as my employers aren't good to work for.

Any advice would be greatly received

[Johnboy007]

Re: Do I have to accept a fixed term contract extension?

Hello, I wonder if anyone can help me.

I have a 12 month contract which is up at the end of October this year. My bonus is tied to me completing the 12 months and if I give notice before the end of October, I will lose my right to claim the bonus.

My employers have given me a letter telling me that they want to extend my fixed term until the end of December this year.

I have got another job starting in November, so my question is do I need to write and state that I do not accept the 2 month extension, and does this count as 'notice'? The extension did not mention any acceptance criteria by me, it was unilateral in that regard.

My contract states that my notice period is 3 months. I am obviously keen to not lose out on my bonus entitlement, particulalrly when I have worked so hard for the past 10 months, but I am equally keen to leave as my employers aren't good to work for.

Any advice would be greatly received

If your contract states three months as your notice period, then I am afraid, that's what it must be.
If your contract is up at the end of October, then the contract is up.
Unless you have a clause stating that you will accept an extension to the contract, then you have no obligation to do so.
Having completed the contract you will be entitled to your bonus.

[oscarwinner]

Re: Do I have to accept a fixed term contract extension?

If your contract states three months as your notice period, then I am afraid, that's what it must be.

Thanks for the advice. I have no issue with the 3 months notice. My question was only about whether I had to accept an extension, and you have you said I do not. Cheers

[Johnboy007]

Re: Do I have to accept a fixed term contract extension?

Thanks for the advice. I have no issue with the 3 months notice. My question was only about whether I had to accept an extension, and you have you said I do not. Cheers

It's not what I say mate, it's what is written down in legislation.
You only have to accept an extension, if that's what it says in your contract.