u/HappyTap4186

I’m a travel OT and could really use some perspective from others who’ve been in this situation.

I received an offer for a travel assignment, and the recruiter asked me to reply to the email with “I accept” if I wanted the position. I did that. However, I have not signed the employment contract or completed any onboarding/credentialing paperwork yet.

I’m struggling because I take my word seriously, and I feel guilty that I already replied “I accept.” At the same time, I don’t want to sign a contract if I’m genuinely uncertain about honoring it.

Has anyone here ever accepted an offer by email (or verbally) and then decided not to move forward before signing the actual contract?

• How did your recruiter react?
• Did it affect your ability to work with that agency again?
• Did it impact your reputation in travel therapy?
• Looking back, do you regret withdrawing or are you glad you were honest before signing?

I’m a travel OT and could really use some perspective from others who’ve been in this situation.

I received an offer for a travel assignment, and the recruiter asked me to reply to the email with “I accept” if I wanted the position. I did that. However, I have not signed the employment contract or completed any onboarding/credentialing paperwork yet.

Has anyone here ever accepted an offer by email (or verbally) and then decided not to move forward before signing the actual contract?

• How did your recruiter react?
• Did it affect your ability to work with that agency again?
• Did it impact your reputation in travel therapy?
• Looking back, do you regret withdrawing or are you glad you were honest before signing?

I’m a travel OT and could really use some perspective from others who’ve been in this situation.

I received an offer for a travel assignment, and the recruiter asked me to reply to the email with “I accept” if I wanted the position. I did that. However, I have not signed the employment contract or completed any onboarding/credentialing paperwork yet.

Since then, a significant personal situation has come up that has made me seriously reconsider whether I should take the assignment. This isn’t because of the pay or the facility—it’s because I’m reevaluating what I want my life to look like long-term.

I’m struggling because I take my word seriously, and I feel guilty that I already replied “I accept.” At the same time, I don’t want to sign a contract if I’m genuinely uncertain about honoring it.

Has anyone here ever accepted an offer by email (or verbally) and then decided not to move forward before signing the actual contract?

• How did your recruiter react?
• Did it affect your ability to work with that agency again?
• Did it impact your reputation in travel therapy?
• Looking back, do you regret withdrawing or are you glad you were honest before signing?

I’m looking for real experiences, not judgment. I know recruiters invest time into finding placements, and I don’t take that lightly. I’m just trying to make the most ethical decision before I sign something I may not be able to fully commit to.