MadyHR.ai Free Resources · USA

Free Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) Template

A performance improvement plan sets out exactly where performance falls short, what needs to change, the support on offer and the timeline. A fair, specific PIP gives the employee a real chance to improve and gives you a clear record.

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

Performance has not improved after informal feedback
Clear, measurable problems with work quality or output
Before considering termination for performance

Tips before you use it

Use facts and examples, not opinions about personality.
Set goals the employee can realistically meet in the time given.
If the employee mentions a medical condition, pregnancy or need for leave, pause and consider accommodation or leave rights before continuing.
Do not start a PIP straight after an employee complains or takes protected leave without advice — it can look like retaliation.

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]

Performance Improvement Plan (PIP)

Employee: [Employee Name]

Job title: [Job Title]

Manager: [Manager Name]

Plan start date: [Start Date]

Plan end date: [End Date]

Performance concerns

Describe each concern with specific examples, dates and the expected standard.

Concern	Examples (with dates)	Expected standard

Improvement goals

Goal	How it will be measured	Deadline

Support and resources

[Training, coaching or tools]
[Weekly 1:1 meetings with the manager]

Check-in schedule

Date	Progress notes	Manager initials	Employee initials

Possible outcomes

If the goals are met, the plan will end and normal reviews will continue. If they are not met, [Company Name] may extend the plan or take further action, which may include termination. This plan does not guarantee employment for its duration and does not change the at-will nature of employment.

If there is anything affecting your work that you would like us to know about, including a health condition for which you may need an accommodation, please talk to [HR Contact Name].

Employee comments

Comments

Signing confirms the employee received and discussed this plan, not that they agree with it.

Employee

Signature

Date

Manager

Signature

Date

Download free (Word .docx)

Frequently asked questions

How long should a PIP last?

Commonly 30, 60 or 90 days, depending on how quickly improvement can reasonably be shown in the role.

Does a PIP change at-will employment?

It should not. This template states that the plan does not guarantee employment for the plan period and does not change at-will status.

Official sources

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

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