It is painful to get fired or to be laid off. Your boss invites you to a dismissal notice and the real reality overturns around you. But it is not all bad news in this document, it is more a guide of what is to be your next steps.
What Is a Notice of Termination?
Notice of termination is the official document that finally makes you part of the company. Your employer uses it to inform you of your last day and the reason why they are terminating your employment. You can imagine it as the official farewell letter to your company.
The vast majority of states are not obligated to have some written formal notice, but prudent employers would. It also covers them legally and provides you with valuable information on your departure.
Types of Employment Termination
Voluntary Termination You leave your job. Maybe you found something better or have to take care of your family. You dictate the timing , usually providing two week notice.
Involuntary Termination You are fired by the employer. This occurs due to many factors – poor performance or budget cuts, or restructuring of the companies, or even violation of the policy.
Layoffs The firm lays you off on an economic ground. It is not a question of your performance – they do not need your job any more.
Termination for Cause You violated company policies or did a bad job. This kind may impact your unemployment eligibility.
What Your Termination Notice Should Include
A proper termination notice contains these key details:
- Your last working day
- Reason for termination
- Final paycheck information
- Benefits continuation details
- Return of company property requirements
- Non-compete or confidentiality reminders
Missing information? Ask HR to clarify before you leave.
Your Rights After Termination
Final Pay The vast majority of states demand their final paycheck within few days. There are those who require payment on your final day. It may be accompanied by unused vacation time, as stated by the law of the state and the company policy.
COBRA Benefits Provided that your company employs 20 or more workers, you can continue with your health insurance over 18 months. You will have to pay the full premium and a small fee, but the cover remains.
Unemployment Benefits Apply immediately to unemployment insurance. Stop waiting, these are some of the advantages that can keep you moving till you get the job.
Severance Pay Severance packages are not legally binding, but are offered by companies. This additional deposit serves you as you move into your new place.
Common Termination Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t Sign Immediately Spend time reading any documents. Make inquires about any ambiguous words. Think of having a lawyer looking at complicated contracts.
Don’t Bad-Mouth Your Employer Never share himself with negative comments. Potential future employers are apt to call the company you have worked at in the past, to get references.
Don’t Forget About Benefits Install COBRA cover fast. Lapses in health insurance may cost you thousands in case of health emergencies.
IMPORTANT REMINDERS
Confidentiality: Even after employment has ended, your confidentiality agreement subsists.
Non-Compete: ☐ N/A ☐ Agreement attached – Review terms carefully
References: To verify employment, please call HR at [phone/email]. Personal references can be requested individually.
Moving Forward
Being fired hurts, but it does not have to be the end. You can use this time to revise your resume, connect with more people, and tap new opportunities. Most individuals get improved jobs upon dismissal.
Concentrate at what you can be in control of. Make a benefits claim, and know your rights, and begin job search. The fact that you have received a termination notice is an end, and also a new beginning.
