Employer Tuition Assistance

[MRoss]

I recently changed jobs and my previous emplyoer is claiming that I owe back monies that were paid out on my behalf for tuition assistance. I have never signed a formal agreement, only an online class application that would get submitted for approval, which apparently kicks out a report stating that I agree to the terms. The terms state that if I voluntarily leave the company, I will pay back any monies paid out for classes within the previous 12 months. I was never able to get a copy of the so stated terms until after I left the company. I did however find them in the employee handbook which I received 5 years ago when I hired in.
I was would like to know, am I bound by this agreement even though I had never physically signed an agreement? They would like me to pay back the amount in monthly payments if I need to.

Thanks,
MRoss

 

[presutin]

Yes, you are. Once you accepted the money to pay for your school tuition, you entered into a contract. If monthly payments are being offered, take it. It is better than having to disburse the entire amount at once.