be required to / be obliged to + base verb

Use these phrases to state that a law, a contract, or an official policy makes an action compulsory. The person who must carry out the duty serves as the grammatical subject of the sentence. Avoid replacing the base verb with an -ing form, and do not drop the particle "to". When referring to multiple workers, make sure the auxiliary verb agrees with the plural subject.

Avoid: "Drivers are obliged keeping..." or "A courier required to..."

be entitled to + noun / base verb

Use this phrase to explain that regulations or statutes give a worker an official right or entitlement. It may be followed by a noun for a benefit, or by a base verb when permitting an action. Be careful never to replace "to" with "for" or "of". The phrase applies equally to individual staff members and collective worker groups.

Avoid: "Couriers are entitled for compensation..."

be exempt from + noun / -ing form

Use this expression to state that a general law, fee, or duty does not apply to a specific person or organization. Always use the preposition "from" directly after "exempt", never "of" or "with". If an action follows the preposition, you must use the -ing form rather than a base verb. The rule stays identical whether the subject is singular or plural.

Avoid: "Freelancers are exempt of paying..." or "exempt from pay..."

may not / shall + base verb

Use "may not" with a base verb to declare a formal ban or prohibition in regulations. Use "shall" with a base verb in formal contracts and statutes to set out an unbending, legally binding obligation on an organization or worker. While everyday conversation relies on "must" or "have to", legal drafting insists on "shall". Never add the preposition "to" after either modal auxiliary.

Avoid: "The firm shall to provide..." or "Employees may not to subcontract..."