Home / Severance offer / Questions

How long do I have to sign a severance agreement?

Short answer

It depends. If you’re 40 or older, federal law generally gives at least 21 days (45 in group layoffs) plus 7 days to revoke. Others should ask for reasonable time.

Rules differ by state. This is general information, not legal or professional advice.

See every step in 1 minuteUnderstanding a severance offer before you sign

Watch now Read the guide

People also ask

Is my employer required to offer severance?›Can I collect unemployment if I take severance?›Should I sign my severance agreement right away?›Can I negotiate a severance package?›What is a release of claims?›Does severance affect unemployment benefits?›What is the WARN Act?›

See all questions (8) ›

Official sources

U.S. Department of Labor: severance paydol.gov
U.S. Department of Labor: WARN Actdol.gov
EEOC: age discrimination and releaseseeoc.gov