When fired, you may be entitled to severance, unemployment, and other benefits depending on the circumstances. Plan ahead by saving money. Research local laws and employee handbooks to understand your rights. Start looking for a new job right away and don’t settle for a less-than-ideal position.
If you are fired, you have several options depending on the precise circumstances of your separation from your former employer. In some cases, you may be entitled to severance, unemployment, and other benefits that will help you while you look for another position. In other cases, you have no legal benefits or protections and will likely need to start checking the job market right away. In either case, you can help yourself by planning ahead; try to set aside some money in savings every month to have a safety cushion if you suddenly become unemployed.
It is important to distinguish between being fired, fired and quit. If you are fired, your employer lets you go, often with other people, because the employer no longer needs your services or can no longer pay you. In that case, you are usually entitled to preferential hiring, which means that if your position opens up later, you can get it back. Your company may also be required to keep you informed about benefits for a certain period of time, and you may receive compensation for a few weeks or months, depending on your position. More importantly, if you are laid off, you can file an unemployment claim with the government for financial assistance.
If you are fired, your employer releases you because you are unfit for a job or because you have committed a gross act of negligence. In that case, you cannot claim unemployment from the government, and your company is not obligated to offer severance pay. However, if you are fired illegally and you can prove it, you may be able to regain your position or sue your employer for damages. By opting out, you have no safety net, as voluntary loss of a job is not grounds for compensation.
You should know your rights in terms of benefits and compensation. Research your local laws and read your employee handbook carefully to understand what benefits, if any, will be offered in the event of your termination. These benefits may also vary depending on the rank you hold within the company; an executive, for example, generally receives more benefits than a janitor. Also check with your union if you are in a unionized workplace as the union representative will be able to inform you of your rights.
Anyway, when you lose your job, you usually need another one. If you’re lucky enough to get compensation because you got fired, don’t be lazy; start looking for new jobs right away for more flexibility and choice. Check job listings, especially for the industry you work in, and consider applying directly to companies you like. Make sure you’ve crafted a solid resume so you’re an attractive candidate and clear with yourself about what you need in a new job. Don’t take a less-than-ideal position, as you won’t be looking for work again for a few months.
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