Relocation Expense Repayment Terms

Summary

Relocation expense repayment depends on your employment contract or relocation agreement. Review the agreement for clauses about repayment if leaving the job within two years. Consider negotiating with your employer, explaining the unforeseen housing market conditions that led to your decision. Consulting a lawyer may help explore defenses like frustration of purpose.

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I relocated for a job, moving from Austin, TX to Basking Ridge, NJ a year ago last month. I found a lease for our family and the landlord decided to not renew the lease. We were not able to find another lease or home and we are moving back to Austin, TX. My employer has stated that I need to repay the relocation expense.
Hey ****! Sorry to hear about your situation. Relocation expense repayment usually depends on the terms of your employment contract or relocation agreement.
- Check your employment contract for any clauses regarding relocation expenses.
- Review any relocation agreement you might have signed.
- Consider if there are any breach of contract claims.
Did your employer provide any written agreement about relocation expenses?
Yes they did
Since your employer provided a written agreement about relocation expenses, it's essential to review it for any specific terms or conditions regarding repayment.
- Look for clauses about repayment in case of relocation back to the original location.
- Check if there are any conditions under which repayment is waived.
Have you had a chance to review the agreement for such details?
The conditions is that if we were to leave the job within 2 years, that I would be obligated to pay the relocation expenses. The issue is that we cannot find suitable housing within the same school district due to unforeseen market conditions and limited housing options.
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Here are some steps you can consider:
- Review the agreement to see if unforeseen circumstances like housing issues are mentioned.
- Negotiate with your employer explaining the housing situation.
- Consult a lawyer to explore possible defenses like frustration of purpose.
Would you like more detailed information on how to approach your employer or any other legal aspect?
Yes please
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For approaching your employer about the relocation expense repayment, consider the following:
- Prepare Your Case: Gather evidence of your housing search and market conditions.
- Communicate Clearly: Explain the unforeseen circumstances that led to your decision.
- Negotiate: Seek a compromise or adjustment to repayment terms.
- Legal Consultation: Consult a lawyer for potential defenses like "frustration of purpose," which may apply due to the housing situation.
If you need more detailed legal assistance, consulting a lawyer might be helpful in understanding the nuances of your contract and potential defenses.