5 Questions to Ask Your Employer If You Get Laid Off
Losing your job can feel like a punch to the gut. It’s emotional, overwhelming, and often unexpected. But before you walk out that door (or log off your last Zoom meeting), you need to take control of the conversation. There are five crucial questions you must ask your employer before you leave to protect yourself and set yourself up for success in your next job search.
Let’s break them down.
1. When and How Will I Receive My Final Paycheck?
Your last paycheck isn’t just about your salary—it could also include accrued vacation time or paid time off (PTO). Many companies won’t automatically hand over that money unless you ask for it, so don’t leave anything on the table.
Be sure to clarify:
The exact date you’ll receive your final paycheck
Whether it will be direct deposit or a mailed check
If your PTO or vacation time will be included in the payout
Some states require employers to pay out unused PTO, while others don’t. Check your employee handbook and state laws to ensure you get everything you’re owed.
2. What Severance Pay or Outplacement Services Are Available?
Many employees assume severance pay is a given, but the reality is, if you don’t ask for it, you might not get it. Severance is extra compensation to help cover your living expenses while you search for your next opportunity. Companies might also offer outplacement services, such as career coaching or resume assistance, to help you land a new job faster.
Go in with an assumptive approach: “Can you tell me the severance pay I’ll receive and what kind of outplacement services are available?”
Even if your company doesn’t initially offer anything, negotiating for severance or outplacement can sometimes work in your favor—especially in a tough job market.
3. Am I Eligible for Rehire?
This question is key to understanding why you’re being let go. If your employer says yes, that confirms it’s truly a layoff due to company restructuring or budget cuts. If they say no, that’s a red flag; it could mean they consider this a termination due to performance issues.
Why does this matter? Because potential employers may check your eligibility for rehire during reference calls. If they hear that you’re not eligible for rehire, it could signal a problem, even if you were told it was just a layoff. Get clear confirmation on this to protect your professional reputation.
4. Who Should Future Employers Contact for References?
Speaking of references, you need to ask your employer:
Who should be contacted for reference checks?
What exact information will be shared?
Many companies only verify dates of employment and salary history, but some might provide additional details—especially if they were unhappy with your performance.
If they’ve said you’re not eligible for rehire but also claim they’ll only verify your employment dates, there’s a potential conflict. Some companies will subtly damage your reputation during reference checks, so having clarity on this is crucial. If needed, you can take legal action if false information is being shared.
5. How Will My Benefits Be Handled?
If you’ve had health insurance, a 401(k), or a bonus structure, you need to know how your departure affects these benefits. Ask about:
How long your health insurance will remain active and what your COBRA options are
What happens to your 401(k) and whether there are penalties for withdrawing funds
Any bonuses you were eligible for and whether they’ll still be paid out
Understanding these details will help you make informed financial decisions as you transition to your next opportunity.
Final Tip: Get Everything in Writing
Once you’ve asked these questions, don’t just take verbal assurances—get it all in writing. If your employer is pushing you to sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) or severance agreement, hold off until you’ve received written confirmation of everything you’ve negotiated. Some companies may try to change the terms later, and without documentation, you have no proof of what was promised.
Take Control of Your Exit
Being laid off is tough, but handling the conversation strategically can make a big difference in what you walk away with. By asking these five questions, you’ll gain clarity, secure what you’re owed, and set yourself up for a smoother transition into your next job.
And remember—you’re not alone in this. If you need more guidance, reach out. I’m here to help!
Go get ‘em!
J.T. O’Donnell
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