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Mutual Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) Template

What is a mutual non-disclosure agreement?

A mutual non-disclosure agreement is a contract in which two parties agree to keep each other's confidential information secret and use it only for an agreed purpose, such as exploring a deal or partnership.

When you need one

  • Discussing a partnership, investment or acquisition
  • Sharing business plans, code or pricing with another company

Key clauses included

  • Definition of confidential information
  • Permitted purpose
  • Obligations of the receiving party
  • Exclusions
  • Compelled disclosure
  • Return or destruction
  • Term of confidentiality
  • Remedies

What the template covers

  1. Confidential Information
  2. Obligations of the Recipient
  3. Exclusions
  4. Compelled Disclosure
  5. Return or Destruction
  6. No Licence, No Obligation
  7. Term
  8. Remedies
  9. General
  10. Governing Law and Disputes

How to use it

  1. Buy and download the editable Word file.
  2. Fill in the brackets: names, dates, fees, scope and governing law. Delete options that don't apply.
  3. Check it against local law, and have a lawyer review it for high-value deals.
  4. Sign it on paper or with any e-signature tool.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a mutual and a one-way NDA?

In a mutual NDA both parties share and protect information. In a one-way NDA only one party discloses, so only the other party takes on confidentiality obligations.

How long should an NDA last?

Commonly two to five years for general business information, and for as long as the information stays secret for trade secrets.

What format is the template in?

You get an editable Microsoft Word (.docx) file that also opens in Google Docs, Pages and LibreOffice.

Can I use this template in my country?

The templates are written for international use with placeholders for governing law and local details. Contract law differs between countries and states, so check the final document against local law, especially for employment and consumer contracts.

Is this legal advice?

No. A template is a starting point, not advice on your situation. For high-value or unusual deals, have a lawyer review the completed document.

How do I receive the file?

Right after payment you are taken to a download page, and PayPal emails you a receipt. Keep the download page link to download the file again.

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