Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA)

Create a legally binding confidentiality agreement to protect sensitive information. Fill in the details below — your document builds live as you type.

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1Type of NDA

Choose who needs to keep information confidential.

2Effective Date

When does this agreement start?

3Disclosing Party

The party sharing confidential information.

4Receiving Party

The party receiving and agreeing to keep the information confidential.

5Purpose

What are the parties working on together?

6Confidential Information

Describe what's being protected. Broad is usually better.

7Agreement Term

How long does the confidentiality obligation last?

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About the Non-Disclosure Agreement

A Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) — also called a Confidentiality Agreement — is a legally binding contract that prevents one or both parties from sharing specified information with outside parties. NDAs are essential anytime you're sharing sensitive details with a potential business partner, contractor, investor, or employee.

When do you need an NDA?

Mutual vs. One-Way NDAs

Mutual NDA (Bilateral)

Both parties share confidential info and both agree to keep it private. Most common in partnerships, joint ventures, and M&A discussions where both sides disclose sensitive details.

One-Way NDA (Unilateral)

Only one party discloses info — the other agrees not to share it. Typical for employer–employee relationships, inventor–investor pitches, or client–contractor arrangements.

Key elements of an enforceable NDA

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this NDA legally binding?

Yes, once both parties sign it. This NDA template follows standard legal conventions and is enforceable in US courts. Electronic signatures are legally recognized under the ESIGN Act.

How long should an NDA last?

For most business contexts, 2 to 5 years is standard. For trade secrets, you may want indefinite protection. Very long NDAs (10+ years) for ordinary business information are often viewed skeptically by courts.

Can I modify the NDA after downloading?

Yes. The PDF is yours — edit, print, or add custom clauses as needed. For significant modifications, have an attorney review the final version.

Do both parties need to sign?

Yes. An NDA only becomes enforceable once both parties sign. If it's a mutual NDA, both disclosing and receiving parties must sign. For one-way NDAs, it's also recommended both sign as acknowledgment.

What happens if someone breaks an NDA?

Breach typically leads to monetary damages and sometimes injunctive relief (a court order stopping further disclosure). Specific remedies depend on the contract terms and applicable state law.

Is this NDA valid in my state?

This template follows general US contract principles and includes a governing state selector. It's valid across all 50 states, though some states (like California) have specific rules on non-compete clauses that are separate from confidentiality. For state-specific concerns, consult an attorney.

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