Severance Pay Lawyer Toronto

Lost Your Job in Toronto? Don’t Accept Your Severance Package Yet

If you’ve been let go from your job in Toronto, your employer may have offered you a severance package — but in most cases, that offer is far less than what you’re actually owed.

Before you sign anything, speak with a severance pay lawyer.

In Ontario, severance can be worth as much as 24 months’ pay depending on your situation. Many employees are only offered the minimum under the law — and unknowingly leave thousands of dollars on the table.

Reviewed by: Lior Samfiru, Employment Lawyer and National Co-Managing Partner

How a Toronto Severance Lawyer Can Review and Negotiate Your Offer

If you have been terminated in Toronto, a severance lawyer can compare your employer’s offer with your full rights under Ontario law and determine whether the package should be improved.

Our Toronto severance pay lawyers can:

• Calculate the notice and compensation you may be owed under Ontario law
• Assess whether a termination clause actually limits your severance rights
• Identify missing salary, bonuses, commissions, benefits, pension contributions or other compensation
• Explain the release and any conditions attached to the offer
• Negotiate directly with your employer when the package falls short
• Pursue a wrongful dismissal claim when proper compensation is not offered

Your employer’s first offer is not automatically your full amount. Before you sign, find out what the package is worth and if there is a strong basis to ask for more. You could be entitled to as much as 24 months’ pay.

How Much Severance Are You Owed in Toronto?

There is no fixed formula for severance pay.

Your compensation is based on several key legal factors, including:

• Your age
• Your position
• Your length of service
• Your compensation structure (salary, bonus, benefits)
• The availability of similar employment

These are often referred to as Bardal factors.

A severance package can total up to 24 months’ pay — even for employees with relatively short service.

Salary Continuance vs Lump Sum: What’s Better?

Some employers offer severance as salary continuance instead of a lump sum payment.

This can affect:

• Your ability to collect EI
• Your tax obligations
• What happens if you find new employment
• Whether your benefits continue

Choosing the wrong structure could cost you thousands.

Common Severance Mistakes We See in Toronto

Many employees unknowingly accept less than they deserve.

The most common mistakes include:

• Accepting the first offer
• Believing “1 week per year” is correct
• Signing under pressure
• Not accounting for bonuses or benefits
• Failing to get legal advice

Once you accept a severance package, you usually can’t go back.

Speak With a Severance Pay Lawyer in Toronto Today

If you’ve been dismissed from your job, don’t assume your employer’s offer is fair.

A quick review with a Toronto severance pay lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP can make a significant difference in what you receive.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much severance pay am I entitled to in Toronto?

You may be entitled to up to 24 months’ pay, depending on your age, position, and other factors.

Do I have to accept my severance package?

No. You have the right to review it before signing.

Can a lawyer increase my severance package?

Yes. In many cases, employees are able to secure significantly more with legal help.