Is severance negotiable?

Often, yes, especially when you ask politely, give a reason and pick something specific. A group layoff may have fixed formulas, but benefits, timing and reference language can still move.

How much severance should I ask for?

A common range is one to two weeks of pay per year of service. Use the severance calculator on this site to see where your offer sits, then ask for the next step up.

Can I still file for unemployment if I take severance?

In most states yes, though some count severance paid as wages for the weeks it covers. Check your state’s rules before you sign.

You can sign what was offered, or ask for a few non-cash items that cost them little. If the agreement asks you to waive legal claims, a short consult with an employment lawyer is worth the time.

Severance negotiation email template

Most severance offers have room in them. A calm email that names a specific ask and one reason is how most people get more.

Subject: Questions about my separation agreement

Hi [name of the hr contact],

Thank you for walking me through the separation agreement. I appreciate how this was handled and I want to resolve it quickly.

After [years of service] years with the company, the offer of [weeks of severance offered] weeks does not reflect my service. [one reason]. I am asking for [weeks you are asking for] weeks of pay and continued health coverage through COBRA at the company’s cost.

If you can confirm that in writing, I am ready to sign well before the [your deadline to sign] deadline. Please also let me know if I should send this to someone else.

Thank you,
[your name]

Open in my email app

How to get it right

Never sign on the day you receive the agreement. Many agreements for workers over 40 must give 21 days to consider (45 in a group layoff) and 7 days to revoke; check yours.
Ask for a number, not “more.” A specific figure with one reason is something HR can approve without escalating.
Benefits are often easier to get than cash: COBRA premiums, outplacement, a longer end date, accrued vacation pay, and a neutral reference.
Stay polite and in writing. A calm email can be forwarded to the person who decides; an angry one cannot.
If the amount is large or the agreement waives claims, have an employment lawyer read it first. Many offer a free first call.

Questions about this message

Is severance negotiable?: Often, yes, especially when you ask politely, give a reason and pick something specific. A group layoff may have fixed formulas, but benefits, timing and reference language can still move.
How much severance should I ask for?: A common range is one to two weeks of pay per year of service. Use the severance calculator on this site to see where your offer sits, then ask for the next step up.
Can I still file for unemployment if I take severance?: In most states yes, though some count severance paid as wages for the weeks it covers. Check your state’s rules before you sign.
What if they say no?: You can sign what was offered, or ask for a few non-cash items that cost them little. If the agreement asks you to waive legal claims, a short consult with an employment lawyer is worth the time.

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