Being fired or laid off
After a job ends, common questions are final pay, unused leave, health coverage, unemployment benefits, references and whether the reason was lawful. Most of these depend on state law and your employer's policies.
What should I ask my employer?
When the final paycheck will arrive, what happens to unused leave and benefits, how to return equipment, and whether there is a separation agreement to review.
Should I sign a severance agreement right away?
Read it carefully; it may ask you to give up legal claims. Many people have an employment lawyer review it first.
Where can I get official information?
The Department of Labor's termination page, and the EEOC if you think the reason was discriminatory.
Official sources to check
This page is general information, not legal advice. Laws change and differ by state and city. Last reviewed October 2026. How answers are made
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