The phrase “on or before” is used to set a specific deadline for a task to be completed. When something is “due on or before” a certain date, it means that the task must be complete, or the goal must be achieved, no later than that date.
For example, if an employer states that a contract must be signed “on or before May 15th,” they expect the contract to be signed no later than May 15th. If the contract is not signed before the stated date, it must be signed by the end of that day.
Similarly, if a manager sets a project deadline of “October 23rd or earlier,” the team members must have the project completed no later than October 23rd, or else they will not have met the deadline.
The phrase “on or before” is commonly used in contracts and other legal documents. It helps to establish clear expectations and reduce any miscommunications that may arise due to vagueness. For this reason, it is important to pay close attention to any language that includes this phrase, so that you are able to meet the stated requirements with minimal confusion.(