The Mailbox Rule

This lesson takes a look at the Mailbox Rule. The offeror, as master of the offer, may insist that the offeree accept by means of the mail (or some similar form delivery, such as e-mail). Alternatively, the offer may not specify a means of acceptance and the offeree may decide to use the mail, where such acceptance would be permissible in accordance with the offer. This lesson sets out the ramifications of use of the mail (as well as e-mail and facsimiles, which follow the same rule). The general attributes of offer and acceptance are covered in other lessons.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of the lesson, the student will be able to:

1. Recall the "Mailbox Rule."
2. Explain the exceptions to the rule.
3. Describe how the rule applies to option contracts.