In the US, talent solutions provider Lee Hecht Harrison (LHH) reports that severance packages are becoming more abundant, which increased to 72% from 2020 to 2025. Several companies review their policies to make their severance package even more generous. A formula will be used to compute the amount of severance pay you get. The calculation will take into account one to two weeks of pay per year of service.
When leaving a company, a severance agreement is a contract that offers employees certain benefits in exchange for agreeing to certain conditions, which may include financial compensation, continuous health insurance, or new employment assistance. If there is a risk of wrongful termination claims or other disputes, a severance agreement may minimize employers’ legal exposure.
Severance packages can affect one’s eligibility for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Gade & Parekh, LLP, says that a person’s eligibility for SSI will depend on your current income and assets. If you believe you don’t receive a fair severance package, you may consult a lawyer who is trained in handling severance law and who will review your severance contract to identify any possible issues so you can be fairly compensated.
As an employee, you need to assert your rights. This article will give you some tips on how to negotiate a fair service package.
Understand Your Rights and Company Policies
Before proceeding with any negotiations, study your rights and your company’s policies on severance pay. Read your employment contract, where your severance provisions are stipulated. Some companies may be more generous in providing severance packages.
Rules for separation pay can differ between states. For example, negotiating a severance package in California may involve a review to check if you will receive a fair severance pay that is adequate for your situation. The review will help assess whether your health insurance or other benefits are well-provided and identify any restricting agreement that will hinder your future job opportunities. When negotiating, identify if you are being asked to waive your rights in pursuit of claims against your employer.
If there is anything that bothers you regarding your rights, do not hesitate to approach your company’s human resources department. Knowledge of the subject will help you negotiate for a fair severance package.
Assess Your Financial Needs
You can assess your financial needs by calculating your monthly expenses, including rent, utilities, groceries, and payments for outstanding debts, so you will not receive less than your severance package.
You also need to examine the job market and evaluate how long it may take you to find a new job. Think of other benefits like health insurance, which you may temporarily lose while looking for another job.
Include all other unplanned expenses as you search so you can fully outline your entire financial obligations. Knowing what you need in terms of finances can help you negotiate for clearer terms and request sufficient support while transitioning to another job.
Prepare Your Case for Negotiation
Review your employment contract for any clauses on severance. Write down your accomplishments during your employment and don’t forget to include all important projects. You can justify your request while proving your value.
Conduct research on typical severance packages so you can compare the usual packages given for those who have the same position as yours. Be aware of any possible legal protections that you may have to protect your rights, interests, and well-being.
Practice Effective Communication Techniques
Be clear and concise in communicating your needs to the other party. Don’t use technical terms during negotiations to avoid confusion. You can clearly lay down your expectations if you stick to concise explanations during the conversation.
Emotions can set in but maintain calm and professional behavior. Actively listen to your employer’s responses to communicate to them that you respect their views.
Ask open-ended questions that will stimulate further discussion. Prepare for any follow-up or necessary clarifications on any points raised throughout the discussion. It is easier for both sides to arrive at sound judgment and a fair conclusion when both sides feel heard and understood.
Be Open to Alternative Compensation Options
Explore different compensation options that might better fit your needs, such as extended health benefits, outplacement services, or job training. Companies may sometimes provide cash along with these options, which can be truly beneficial to your financial situation.
Be flexible and think outside the box during negotiations so you can arrive at solutions that can suit your plans in life.
When seeking a fair severance package, do not hesitate to assert your rights. Stay open to alternative solutions that you can also find beneficial. You will be able to increase your chances of reaching a mutually agreeable outcome if you approach negotiations with professionalism and confidence.
