Written notice (erinran) – guides & rules

Do you have to sign a written warning?

No, there is no general requirement in the Employment Protection Act (LAS) that an employee must acknowledge a formal warning with their signature. Read more about receipts, objections, and documenting receipt.

Published Emil Sunnerberg
Do you have to sign a written warning?

By Mallbutiken · Facts verified October 1, 2026

There is no general requirement under the Employment Protection Act (LAS) that an employee must sign a formal warning for the employer to issue it. A signature can serve as an acknowledgement of receipt, but the employee should check whether the text only confirms receipt or is also claimed to imply acceptance.

Can you refuse to sign?

Yes, if the signature is voluntary, the employee can decline and instead provide their own written comments. The employer can still document that the document has been delivered via, for example, email, meeting minutes, or other traceable communication.

No mandatory "two witnesses": Older guides sometimes state that exactly two witnesses are required if the employee refuses. There is no such general formal requirement in the Employment Protection Act for a standard employment law warning.

If you agree with the receipt but not the content

It is possible to write that the signature only refers to the receipt while simultaneously submitting a separate objection. Objectively describe which factual details you dispute, which explanation is missing, and which documents support your version.

If the employer wants proof of receipt

The employer should distinguish between being able to show that the information has reached the employee and obtaining an admission of misconduct. Clear acknowledgement text reduces the risk of conflict regarding what the signature means.

Does a refusal affect employment?

A refusal to sign does not automatically change the underlying assessment of the misconduct. If the employer later considers termination, the requirements of the Employment Protection Act must still be met.

Employers can use an editable written admonition template. For clearer corrective requirements and follow-up, compare the written warning or admonition template.

Read about the difference between a warning and an admonition and what happens if an employee refuses to sign a warning.

Sources

Unionen – warning and formal reprimand · LAS (Employment Protection Act)

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Templates developed for the preparation of a written reminder:

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