Lost your job in Ontario? Here’s what you must know to get the compensation you deserve

What you should know when you lose your job

Losing your job in Ontario can be a traumatic experience. Whether you’re in Toronto, Mississauga or Brampton, understanding your rights is crucial. Many people find themselves searching for a ‘lost job lawyer’ in the 905, 416, 647 or 289 area code. However, it’s essential to be aware that accepting the first severance offer from your employer can often leave you with far less than what you’re legally entitled to receive.

You ARE owed severance!

If you’ve lost your job, you are entitled to severance pay. This applies regardless of how long you’ve been employed or the size of your employer’s company. Severance, often referred to as “termination pay” or “pay in lieu of notice,” is your right under Ontario law. There’s a common misconception that you need to have worked for at least five years to qualify for severance, but this is entirely false. Whether you’ve been with the company for just a few months or several years, you deserve compensation unless you were terminated for serious misconduct.

Calculating severance

Employers in Ontario can generally terminate employment at any time, provided they offer appropriate severance pay. The amount of severance you’re owed depends on various factors, including your length of employment, age, and the type of job you held. Contrary to popular belief, there is no fixed rule, such as one or two weeks of severance per year of service.

• Example: If you’re a 45-year-old supervisor who worked for two years, you could be entitled to up to six months’ severance.

Severance should cover all aspects of your compensation, including salary, bonuses, benefits, car allowances, and pensions. Many employers offer severance packages that only include base salary, which is insufficient and incorrect under Ontario law.

To make this process easier, I created the Severance Pay Calculator Ontario. This free, anonymous tool helps you estimate the severance pay you may be entitled to if you lose your job. I highly recommend using it if you’re facing job loss or are concerned about future employment.

What to do if you lost your job in Ontario’s 905 or 416 area

If you’re in the 905 or 416 area and searching for a lost job lawyer, it’s vital to act quickly to secure the compensation you deserve. Our Ontario employment lawyers specialize in ensuring you receive the maximum severance pay and benefits you’re entitled to under the law.

Inadequate Severance

Almost daily, I speak with individuals who have lost their jobs and received severance offers far below what they are rightfully owed. Often, these cases are resolved quickly and without the need for legal action when you have a knowledgeable employment lawyer by your side.

Don’t feel pressured by deadlines imposed in severance offers—your legal rights won’t expire at 5 p.m. on a Friday. Take the time to carefully review any severance offer and consult with an employment lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP to ensure you don’t leave thousands of dollars on the table.

Losing your job can be overwhelming, but understanding your rights is the first step toward securing the compensation you deserve and moving forward positively. Whether you’re in Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, or elsewhere in the GTA, our employment lawyers are here to help you navigate this challenging time.

Call us today to speak with one of our employment lawyers and get comprehensive advice on the compensation you deserve.