What To Include In A Letter Of Intent (2026)

Core Elements Every LOI Needs

Are you wondering what to include in a letter of intent? Exactly what you include will depend on individual circumstances, but in general, an LOI should at least include the following:

• A brief description of the deal or relationship you’re proposing
• Proposed financial terms (if applicable)
• An explanation of your impact (or value proposition)
• A conclusion encouraging the recipient to take the next step (often a phone call or meeting)
• Attachments of any supporting documents.

Your LOI should also clearly state any contingencies. For instance, when writing a letter of intent to donate, many would-be donors stipulate how they want money to be used.

Stating the Purpose and Parties

Many people underestimate the importance of clearly stating their purpose and the parties involved. Within the first few sentences, your recipient should know who you are and why you’re writing.

Including Non-Binding Provisions

In a letter of intent, non-binding provisions are those that the parties have already tentatively agreed to. Including them helps everyone involved stay on the same page, and it may reduce the risk of legal disputes later on.

Choosing the Right LOI Type

There are many different types of letters of intent. These are a few examples:

• A business purchase letter of intent proposes a business acquisition.
• An investment letter of intent expresses an interest in investing in a particular company.
• A job letter of intent expresses interest in a specific position (or even in working for a particular company).

While selecting the right type of LOI is important, it’s also crucial to personalize each letter to the audience. If your LOI reads like a form letter, the recipient may be less inclined to work with you.

Writing the Letter Step by Step

A letter of intent should follow a business letter format:

• Start with a header including the date, your contact info and the recipient’s contact info
• Include a professional greeting
• Clearly state why you’re writing and explain your proposed terms or qualifications
• Finish with a strong conclusion

A strong letter of intent should be concise and persuasive.

Get Guidance on What to Include in a Letter of Intent

In many cases, your letter of intent is your first point of contact with the person or business entity you want to work with. A clear, well-written LOI can dramatically increase your chances of success. If you want to learn more about how to write your letter or what to include, visit our collection of legal templates and guides.