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MadyHR.ai Free Resources · USA

Free IT and Acceptable Use Policy Template

An acceptable use policy explains how employees may use company computers, phones, email and internet, and tells them in advance that company systems may be monitored.

Download free (Word .docx) Free · No sign-up · Opens in Microsoft Word and Google Docs · Last reviewed October 2026

Important: please read

This template is a free starting point, not legal advice. MadyHR.ai is not a law firm and cannot give legal advice. Employment law is different in every state, and some cities have their own rules. Laws also change. Before you use this template, check it against the laws where your employees work, and speak to an employment attorney or your state labor department if you are unsure. You use this template at your own risk, and MadyHR.ai accepts no responsibility for how it is used. Links to official government websites are given for information only; MadyHR.ai is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government agency.

When to use this template

  • Issuing laptops or phones
  • Giving staff access to customer data
  • After a security incident

Tips before you use it

  • Tell employees in writing if you monitor company systems — some states (for example New York, Connecticut and Delaware) require advance notice of electronic monitoring.
  • Keep the rules practical: strong passwords, no shared logins, report lost devices fast.
  • Do not use the policy to ban protected discussions about pay and working conditions.
Rules in your state may differ. Federal law sets the minimum. Your state — and sometimes your city or county — may add extra rules on this topic. Check with your state labor department before you use this template. Find your state labor office (U.S. Department of Labor)

Template preview

Replace everything in [brackets] and delete the notes for employers before you use it. The Word download contains the full template.

[Company Name]

IT and Acceptable Use Policy

This policy covers all company devices, accounts, networks, software and data, and any personal device used for [Company Name] work.

Acceptable use

  • Use company systems mainly for work. Limited personal use is allowed if it does not interfere with work or break this policy.
  • Do not access, download or share illegal, offensive or harassing material.
  • Do not install software without approval from [IT Contact Name].

Passwords and access

  • Use strong, unique passwords and multi-factor authentication where available.
  • Never share your login or use someone else's.
  • Lock your device when you step away.

Data protection

  • Store company files only in approved locations.
  • Do not send customer or confidential data to personal accounts.
  • Report lost or stolen devices and suspected security incidents to [IT Contact Name] immediately.

Monitoring notice

Company systems, devices and accounts belong to [Company Name] and may be monitored, accessed and reviewed for business, security and legal reasons, in line with applicable law. You should not expect privacy in anything you create, store, send or receive on company systems.

Leaving the company

Return all company devices and do not keep copies of company data. Access will be removed on your last day.

Nothing in this policy is intended to restrict employees' rights under Section 7 of the National Labor Relations Act, including the right to discuss wages, hours and other terms and conditions of employment with each other or with others.

This policy is not a contract of employment and does not change the at-will nature of employment with [Company Name]. [Company Name] may change this policy at any time, and will apply it in line with federal, state and local law.

I have received and read this policy, and I understand it.

Employee
Signature
Date

Frequently asked questions

Can employers monitor work email in the US?

Generally employers may monitor their own systems, but several states require written notice to employees before electronic monitoring. Giving clear notice in this policy is best practice everywhere.

Should employees use personal devices for work?

If you allow it, set rules for passwords, updates and what happens to company data when the employee leaves.

Official sources

Each source below is an official U.S. government website. Check them for the latest rules.

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