Questions to Ask When Being Laid Off
Questions to Ask When Being Laid Off
Critical questions to protect your rights, understand severance, and secure references and benefits during a layoff.
1What is the effective date of my termination, and what is my last day of work?
What is the effective date of my termination, and what is my last day of work?
Clarifies timeline and when your employment officially ends.
2Am I being offered a severance package, and what does it include?
Am I being offered a severance package, and what does it include?
Establishes what compensation you'll receive beyond your final paycheck.
3How is the severance amount calculated, and is it negotiable?
How is the severance amount calculated, and is it negotiable?
Shows the formula and whether there's room to negotiate better terms.
4What happens to my unused vacation, sick time, and PTO?
What happens to my unused vacation, sick time, and PTO?
Ensures accrued time off is paid out per company policy or state law.
5How long will my health insurance continue, and what are my COBRA options?
How long will my health insurance continue, and what are my COBRA options?
Clarifies healthcare coverage and costs so you can plan for continuity.
6Will the company provide outplacement services or career counseling?
Will the company provide outplacement services or career counseling?
Assesses support for your job search and whether resources are available.
7Can I get a letter of recommendation or reference from my manager or HR?
Can I get a letter of recommendation or reference from my manager or HR?
Secures positive references while relationships are still intact.
8What will be shared with future employers if they contact for a reference?
What will be shared with future employers if they contact for a reference?
Clarifies what the company will say about your departure and employment.
9Am I required to sign a release or non-disparagement agreement to receive severance?
Am I required to sign a release or non-disparagement agreement to receive severance?
Ensures you understand what rights you're waiving and what you're agreeing to.
10How long do I have to review the severance agreement before signing?
How long do I have to review the severance agreement before signing?
Confirms you have time to consult an attorney if needed.
11What happens to my 401(k), stock options, or other retirement benefits?
What happens to my 401(k), stock options, or other retirement benefits?
Clarifies vesting, portability, and deadlines for decisions.
12Am I eligible for unemployment benefits, and will the company contest my claim?
Am I eligible for unemployment benefits, and will the company contest my claim?
Helps you understand eligibility and whether the process will be contested.
13Can I keep my company laptop, phone, or other equipment, or do I need to return them?
Can I keep my company laptop, phone, or other equipment, or do I need to return them?
Clarifies what you can keep and avoids disputes over company property.
14What is the reason for my layoff, and is it performance-related or economic?
What is the reason for my layoff, and is it performance-related or economic?
Ensures the record is clear and protects against wrongful termination claims.
15Will I be eligible for rehire in the future?
Will I be eligible for rehire in the future?
Clarifies your status and whether doors remain open.
16What support will the company provide for LinkedIn updates or networking?
What support will the company provide for LinkedIn updates or networking?
Shows whether the company will help you transition publicly and professionally.
17Are there any non-compete or confidentiality agreements that remain in effect?
Are there any non-compete or confidentiality agreements that remain in effect?
Clarifies ongoing obligations and whether they'll limit your next role.
18What is the timeline for receiving my final paycheck and severance payment?
What is the timeline for receiving my final paycheck and severance payment?
Ensures you know when money will hit your account for planning purposes.
19Can I receive my severance as a lump sum or structured payments?
Can I receive my severance as a lump sum or structured payments?
Clarifies payout options and tax implications.
20Who should I contact if I have follow-up questions after today?
Who should I contact if I have follow-up questions after today?
Establishes a point of contact for ongoing issues or clarifications.
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Navigating a Layoff
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