Merger Clause

In one sentence

A contract statement that the written agreement supersedes all prior negotiations and understandings.

Plain English

A merger clause declares that the written contract absorbs and replaces everything the parties discussed or agreed to before signing. It 'merges' all prior negotiations into the final written document. This prevents one party from later claiming they were promised something different in an earlier conversation.

Ad slot

Example

A software license agreement includes a merger clause stating that the written license is the complete agreement and cancels any prior emails, quotes, or verbal promises about features or support. The customer cannot later claim the vendor promised free upgrades if that promise isn't in the written document.

Used in a sentence

“The merger clause eliminated any reliance on the sales representative's earlier verbal promises about product features.”

Related terms

Entire Agreement Clause

A contract provision stating that the written agreement is the complete and final deal between parties.

Integrated Agreement

A written contract that the parties intend as the complete and final statement of their deal.

Warranty

A promise that something is true or will work as described.

Disclaimer of Warranties

A statement that removes or limits the automatic guarantees a seller would otherwise provide.

Severability Clause

A provision stating that if one part of a contract is invalid, the rest remains enforceable.

Offer

A proposal to enter into a binding agreement on specific terms.

Acceptance

Agreeing to the exact terms of an offer, creating a binding contract.

Consideration

Something of value exchanged by each party to make a contract binding.

This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney.