All you want to know about Term Sheet

Updated on June 19, 2025 02:53:19 PM

A term sheet is a document that sorts out disagreements and summarises the main point before the initiation of the actual legal agreements.A term sheet is not a final agreement even though it is a non-binding agreement between the parties around which in the future definitive agreements will be made. This is not signed by the signatories.

A term sheet is mainly related to the startup even though it can be used for long-term debt, mergers, and acquisitions. Liquidation preference, investment amount, voting right, company valuation, percentage stake, investor commitment, and anti-dilutive provisions are some of the items that find their place in the Term Sheet.

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What is a Term Sheet ?

The term sheet is a pre-contractual document that lays down the main key terms of the transaction between the parties. A term sheet is a non-binding agreement that includes basic conditions for investing.

It is a reference document that is used from the starting point and ends as a binding agreement. The final agreement will be made based on term sheets. It acts as the foundation to ensure that the parties agree on the important point of the contract.

It is a written document of important conditions and terms as agreed by the parties. It acts as a guide to the parties to understand what they will not accept, what they have to expect, and what they want out of the term sheet.

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Various Benefits of the Term Sheet

The term Sheet can convey the intention of the parties about the financial agreement and funding. It will demonstrate the commitment and seriousness of the parties without binding the agreement.This avoids misunderstanding by building an uncomplicated relationship between the parties.

It proves to be cost-effective by saving the money of the parties because it does not involve charges of making legal agreements.It consumes less time by reducing the negotiation time of the agreement. These terms are already mentioned in the term sheet.

This helps in making clear and concise agreement because while drafting agreement term sheets will guide the legal counsel about the expectation of the parties so he will know what to include and what not to include.

It ensures a stable, strong, and strengthened transaction. As the parties have not signed any agreement, it is a nonbinding agreement that gives a sense of commitment to the parties and encourages the parties to live up to their words.

This gives flexibility to the parties to withdraw from the agreement without hammering their image and this also gives a strong sense of seriousness and commitment without being tied to the deal as they have the option to walk out at any time.

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Format of the Term Sheets

Different formats are used in different stages or different sectors. The detail to be included in the term sheet depend upon the agreement at hand though there are certain points that need to be included in the term sheet:

  • Business Information - First information should be given about the name of the business and the name of the parties involved. Information about the investors.
  • Liquidity preference - This is one of the most important terms of the Term Sheets which describes how much the company should pay at the time of the exit.
  • Payment Term - Under this, we explain the timing of the payment and timing. Clear information regarding how much investment is required and what all partners will get in return for their investment reduce the confusion.
  • Voting Rights - According to the share of investment investors, they get the opportunity to participate in the decision-making process of the company. This clarification helps investors in the allocation of funds.
  • Exclusivity and Confidentiality - Parties will decide about the confidentiality and exclusiveness terms of the agreement.
  • Termination- The condition regarding the closure of the agreement has to be decided by the parties.
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Tips to write Term Sheets

  • Important Terms should be included - In Term Sheets only important terms of the transaction should be included so that parties can concentrate on the important issue rather than tangled with little minutiae. Little detail can be considered in complete agreement.
  • Be Concise and Clear- Term sheets should have simple language so that every party understands it. Legal Jargon should be avoided. In the Term sheet, all essential aspects of the agreement should be explained briefly and clearly.
  • Be Adjustable - The term Sheet serves as a starting point so it will be open for recommendation and prepared to make concessions. The main aim is to develop mutually beneficial agreements.
  • Legal Advice is needed - While drafting the term sheet legal counsel should be taken. While choosing terms and wording expert solicitors should assist with whether they are enforceable and acceptable.
  • Non-binding - Term Sheets are not legally enforceable which means they are non-binding. In the Term, sheet parties do not have the risk of violating the formal contract by discussing and changing the condition of the contract.
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Term Sheet Interchangeable Documents

Three documents, memorandums of understanding (MOU), Letter of Intent, and Term sheet are mentioned because they contain the same information and accomplish the same goals although they are different.

The term sheet is a list of requirements with a bullet point whereas a letter of intent is a formal document. With a memorandum of understanding parties enter into binding conditions and negotiate the condition, terms, and details of it with the other party whereas in term sheets information is shared regarding some aspect of the document and will be negotiated in conjunction with other documents.

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Conclusion

The term sheet covers the critical and essential points of the agreement.term sheet not only covers the important points but also dot-pint or table form of clarity. The term sheet is a necessary step of the transaction. It laid the framework for the two sides future partnership.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the term sheet legally binding?

No Term sheets are not legally binding. Parties have no obligation to obey the clauses even if they have signed the documents.if any of the parties do not wish to continue then they have the option to back out.

What is a binding term sheet ?

Basic terms and conditions related to investment are mentioned in a binding term sheet which is a non-binding agreement. Startups usually use term sheets as entrepreneurs consider term sheets as important documents to attract investors.

Who Prepares a Term Sheet?

Preparation of the term sheet depends on the different parties and financial instruments. For loans prospective buyers get the term sheet from the lending institution. For seed investment investors provide the term sheet.

Where does a Term Sheet come from?

Both investors as well as companies who want investment prepare a term sheet. Investment seeking investment gives detail of what it has to offer. Enlightened investors like angel groups, larger groups and venture capitalist make Term Sheets.

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