When is an offer considered accepted using an instantaneous method?

An offer is considered accepted using an instantaneous method when the acceptance is received by the offeror. In contract law, the general rule is that acceptance must be communicated to the offeror for a contract to be established. This is particularly true for instantaneous methods of communication, such as telephone conversations or electronic communications where responses are transmitted immediately.

In such cases, the moment the acceptance lands in the offeror's inbox or is heard by them constitutes the acceptance of the offer. This is because both parties are engaging in a real-time exchange, and the offeror must be aware of the acceptance to form a binding agreement. Understanding this principle is crucial for recognizing how acceptance works in various forms of communication, especially in a fast-paced digital world.

The other options speak to aspects that do not align with the fundamental rules governing acceptance in instantaneous communications. While acknowledgment or intent may be part of the negotiating process, they do not constitute acceptance until the offeree’s acceptance is actually received by the offeror. Therefore, the principle that the acceptance must be received captures the essence of establishing an agreement.