Addendum
An addendum is an extra section added to a document, often a contract or agreement.
An addendum is like an appendix or a postscript to an official document. It's used to add new information, clarify existing points, or make changes to the original agreement without rewriting the whole thing.
For example, if a company has a contract for using an AI service, they might sign a data processing addendum. This addendum would specifically detail how their personal data will be handled by the AI provider, adding to the general terms of the original contract.
An addendum serves as a formal supplement to an existing legal document, contract, or agreement. It is executed by the parties involved and becomes an integral part of the original document, modifying or expanding upon its terms. Addenda are common in business and legal contexts to address specific issues, such as data handling, service level agreements, or compliance requirements, without invalidating the core agreement.
Addenda are appearing in AI news as companies like Anthropic and OpenAI formalize terms for their services and programs. These documents clarify specific details, such as the scope of third-party benefits in startup programs or the handling of customer data, ensuring transparency and legal compliance.
- Claude Startups Additional Benefits AddendumAnthropic · Legal and Policies ·
- Data processing addendumOpenAI · OpenAI Policies ·
- Anthropic Claude
- Anthropic uses addenda to clarify terms for its programs, such as the Startup Program Additional Benefits Addendum.
- OpenAI ChatGPT
- OpenAI uses addenda, like its Data Processing Addendum, to detail how customer data is handled for its services.
- Appendix
- An appendix is a section at the end of a document containing supplemen
- Amendment
- An amendment formally changes or corrects a document, whereas an adde
- Rider
- A rider is an additional clause or document attached to a contract, often
The term 'addendum' originates from Latin, meaning 'something to be added'. It has long been used in legal and contractual contexts to denote an addition to a document.
Review the privacy policy and terms of service for an AI product you use. Look for any linked documents or sections that specifically detail data handling or processing, which might function as or be similar to an addendum.
The Playbook: reusable how-tos, prompts, configs and tips pulled out of the news.
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Questions people ask
- What is the main purpose of an addendum?
- The main purpose of an addendum is to add new information or modify existing terms in a document without rewriting the entire original text.
- Is an addendum legally binding?
- Yes, when properly executed by all parties involved, an addendum becomes a legally binding part of the original document.
First seen on Subvolts Sep 4, 2026. Updated Oct 13, 2026. Written by an AI model from the items above and reviewed against them weekly; report an error.