Each contract in EvergreenWorx Contracts moves through a structured lifecycle, represented by a defined set of status values. These statuses help users and stakeholders understand the current state of the contract, drive workflow automation, and control when certain actions (such as approvals or renewals) are permitted.
This article explains each available status and when it should be used during the contract lifecycle.
Status Definitions and Usage
Draft
This is the initial status of a newly created contract. It indicates that the contract is still being authored or assembled.
When to use: Use when the contract is being prepared but not yet submitted for internal or external review.
In Review
Indicates that the contract is undergoing internal or external review, possibly involving legal, finance, or other stakeholders.
When to use: Transition to this status once the contract is ready for review and collaboration has begun.
Signed
The contract has been fully signed by all required parties but is not yet considered Active.
When to use: Use this status after the eSignature process has been completed but before the contract becomes active (e.g., if the effective date is in the future).
Active
The contract is now in effect and enforceable. This is the main working status for contracts that are currently being executed.
When to use: Move to Active once all required signatures are completed and the effective date has been reached.
Expired
The contract has reached its end date and is no longer in effect.
When to use: Automatically or manually transition to this status when the expiration date passes and no renewal has occurred.
Expired – Active
Indicates that the contract’s expiration date has passed, but the contract is still actively being used or enforced, possibly due to extensions or grace periods.
When to use: Use when the contract technically expired but is still operational under mutual agreement.
Terminating
The contract is in the process of being formally terminated. This may involve wind-down activities, final billing, or legal review.
When to use: Apply when termination has been initiated but not finalized.
Closed
The contract has been completed and closed successfully. All obligations are fulfilled, and no further action is needed.
When to use: Use when the contract’s lifecycle has concluded properly, whether after expiration or successful project completion.
Canceled
The contract was voided or withdrawn before execution. No signatures were finalized or the agreement was abandoned.
When to use: Use when the contract will not move forward and should be archived as canceled.
Transition Guidelines
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Draft → In Review: When ready for stakeholder input
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In Review → Signed: When all signers have completed the process
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Signed → Active: Upon reaching the effective date
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Active → Expired: Upon reaching the expiration date with no renewal
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Active → Terminating: When formal termination is underway
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Terminating → Closed: Once termination is complete
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Any → Canceled: When the contract will not proceed
Understanding and properly using status transitions ensures accurate lifecycle tracking, reliable reporting, and effective workflow automation across contract records.
