An offer letter is a formal written document extended to a selected candidate that outlines the terms of their employment, including role, compensation, start date, and any conditions such as background check completion. It serves as the official communication that a hiring decision has been made and it's often available directly in a hiring platform.

While not always a legally binding contract, an offer letter sets clear expectations for both the employer and the candidate before they begin. A well-crafted offer letter can also reinforce a positive candidate experience and reduce the likelihood of offer rejections.