How to reply to a contract sent for your review

Updated November 12, 2026

Reply within a day to confirm you received it and say when you will respond. Read the whole contract, then send your questions and requested changes in one organized email, not piecemeal. Do not sign until you understand every part. For anything with big money, long terms or risk, have a lawyer read it first.

Reply

Within 1 day to acknowledge. The other side wants to know you received it and when to expect an answer. The full review can take longer than the acknowledgment.

What your reply should say

1. Confirm that you received the contract, and give a date for your full response.
2. Read it all, then list questions and requested changes by section number.
3. Say which points matter most, so the discussion stays on what is important.
4. Ask for a revised version in writing before you sign anything.

3 replies you can copy

Pick the one that matches what you want to say, copy it, and change everything in [brackets].

Hi [Name],

Thank you for sending the contract. I have received it and I am reading it now.

I will reply with any questions or requested changes by [date]. I will not sign before then.

Please let me know if there is a date by which you need it signed.

Best,
[Your name]

Hi [Name],

Thank you for the contract. I have read it, and I would like to raise a few points:

1. Section [number]: [question or requested change]
2. Section [number]: [question or requested change]
3. Section [number]: [question or requested change]

Could you send a revised version once we agree on these? I am happy to talk it through on a call.

Best,
[Your name]

Hi [Name],

Thank you for sending the contract. Because of the [length, value, or term], I would like my lawyer to review it before I sign.

I expect to reply by [date]. If that timing is a problem, please tell me and we can talk about it.

I am looking forward to working with you.

Best,
[Your name]

Already late? Send this instead

For when you are a week late or more. Own the delay in one line, then do the job.

Hi [Name],

Sorry for the late reply on the contract. I have now reviewed it.

I have [no changes and am ready to sign / a few questions: list]. If you can, please send [a revised version or a signing link] and I will respond within [time].

Thank you for your patience.

[Your name]

Mistakes to avoid

• Signing because the other side is in a hurry. Read all of it first.
• Replying "looks good" without having read the sections on payment, ending and ownership.
• Sending changes one at a time over several emails.
• Relying on a verbal promise instead of getting the change in the written contract.

Questions people ask

Do I need a lawyer to review a contract?

For small, simple deals you may be comfortable reading it yourself. For long terms, large sums, exclusivity, or anything you do not fully understand, ask a lawyer. This page is not legal advice. A short review costs far less than a dispute later.

Can I ask for changes to a contract?

Yes. It is normal, and most parties expect some back and forth. Be specific by section, explain briefly why, and focus on what matters most. Ask for a revised version in writing. Do not sign an earlier version while changes are still being agreed.

More reply guides

• How to reply to a cold sales email
• How to reply to a vendor's follow-up email
• How to reply to a partnership proposal email
• How to reply to a demo request from a prospect
• How to reply to an invitation to speak at an event
• How to reply to an event invitation email

How this page was made

Written by Westward, who make Orbit, as starting points you edit before sending. The replies use placeholders, not real people or real mail. Nothing here is legal, tax or medical advice; for contracts, money or health, check the document or ask a professional. All reply guides.