Think About Severance Before You Switch Jobs
Before leaving your current position for a new one, consider the severance implications.
Non-unionized employees can receive up to 24 months’ pay when let go without cause – but if you resign voluntarily, you’re likely not entitled to severance. However, if you’re being pushed out due to major unwanted changes to your job, that could be constructive dismissal – and you may still qualify for severance.
Never quit until you’ve spoken with an employment lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
• CGC Layoffs and Severance Pay
• How to calculate severance pay
• Should I negotiate my own severance package in Alberta?
Your Length of Service Matters
Severance is heavily influenced by how long you’ve worked for a company.
- Example: If you leave a job you’ve held in the Calgary area for 12 years to join a new company, and you’re let go after only a few months, your severance may be minimal – unless your previous service is factored (see “Inducement” below).
But don’t assume that short service means low compensation. Many short-service employees are entitled to significant severance.
🔍 Real Case Example
We secured 6 months’ pay for a B.C. sales representative who worked at their company for just 6 months. Short-service employees can still receive substantial compensation. Read the full story.
If you’re let go after a short time with a company, don’t sign anything before speaking with our team. You could be owed much more than your employer offers.
🕒 You have up to two years from the date of termination to pursue full severance – as long as you haven’t accepted the offer in writing.
SEE ALSO
• I already accepted a severance package, what should I do?
• Do I have to look for a new job after getting fired?
• Employment Law Show: Facts about the termination process
Recruited by the Company? You May Be Owed More
If CGC actively recruited or persuaded you to leave your previous job, the law in Alberta may consider that inducement.
If they let you go shortly after hiring you, that inducement could mean enhanced severance pay, especially if your previous job was long-term and secure.
- Example: If your new employer offered you a position at their new manufacturing facility and convinced you to leave a stable job with your former employer, they may owe you more if you’re fired soon after joining.
Our team will review your severance offer to ensure inducement has been properly accounted for in your compensation.
We can confirm that the inducement has been properly factored into your severance package and help you secure the compensation you deserve if it isn’t.
Before You Start Your New Job, Contact Us
A job offer can be exciting – but it’s also a major legal agreement.
Let Samfiru Tumarkin LLP review your employment contract before you sign. Our experienced legal professionals – including Calgary-based employment lawyers and those serving clients across Alberta – have helped tens of thousands of non-unionized employees across Canada, including in Ontario and B.C.
We’ll explain what your contract really means, protect your rights, and help you make the right move before signing.
