How much notice or severance pay should I get in BC?
The length of notice or pay depends on how long you’ve worked for the employer. There are two layers of notice entitlement and severance pay in BC:
- ESA minimum: The minimum notice/pay requirement is based on length of service. Under the Act, you’re entitled to between 1 and 8 weeks of notice depending on your years of service.
- Common law: This standard refers to the common legal practice, compared to the ESA minimum. It is the amount a court is more likely to award, if there is a court case regarding termination compensation. Courts consider “reasonable notice” (or pay) to be about 1 month for each year of service.
Your exact entitlement may vary, so legal advice is recommended. In some cases, if you’re fired for misconduct, the employer may not owe you notice or pay.
See People’s Law School article (opens in a new tab).
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