Independent template site. Formats are for information only and are not legal advice. Laws, stamp duty and registration rules vary by State.

Agreement Formats: NDA, Partnership Deed, MOU and More

Business and personal agreements in one place. Each format below is a complete document, with notes on stamp duty, registration and the clauses courts look at.

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Format

Non-disclosure agreement

Mutual and one-way NDAs.

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Partnership deed

Firm name, capital, profit share, retirement.

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MOU

Memorandum of understanding between two parties.

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HUF deed

Declaration of a Hindu Undivided Family.

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Agreement between two parties

General contract structure.

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Rent agreements

11 month, shop, leave and licence, lease.

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What makes an agreement enforceable

  • Free consent of competent parties, a lawful object and lawful consideration.
  • Clear terms: who does what, by when, for how much.
  • Proper stamp duty for the State where it is signed; an unstamped instrument is not admissible in evidence until duty and penalty are paid (section 35, Indian Stamp Act).
  • Registration where the law requires it, mainly for documents affecting immovable property.
  • Signatures of authorised persons, with witnesses.

Agreement checklist

  1. PartiesFull legal names, addresses, and for companies the CIN or registration and the signatory’s authority.
  2. RecitalsShort background: why the parties are contracting.
  3. Operative clausesObligations, payment, timelines, deliverables.
  4. Protective clausesConfidentiality, indemnity, limitation, termination, dispute resolution, governing law.
  5. ExecutionDate, place, signatures, witnesses, stamp and annexures.

Frequently asked questions

Does every agreement need stamp paper?

Most agreements attract stamp duty under State stamp laws, though the amount varies. Check your State’s schedule.

Are electronic signatures valid?

The Information Technology Act, 2000 recognises electronic signatures for many contracts, but its First Schedule still excludes some documents, such as wills and trusts, and the list has been amended over time. Check the current position before signing an important document electronically.

Should I use an MOU or an agreement?

Use an MOU to record intentions before a final deal. Use an agreement when you want binding obligations.

Please note: these templates are for general information and are not legal advice. Laws, stamp duty, notarisation and registration rules vary by State. Consult an advocate for your case. This is an independent website, not a law firm and not a government office.