Severance Package in Alberta: Are You Eligible?
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Severance Package in Alberta: Are You Eligible?

Severance Package in Alberta: Are You Eligible? If you’ve recently lost your job or are facing termination, it’s natural to wonder what comes next. Whether you’re in downtown Edmonton, Whyte Ave, or beyond, knowing your rights can make all the difference. At Abougoush Law, we’re here to help Alberta workers navigate their options.

What Exactly Is a Severance Package?

A severance package is a combination of compensation and benefits provided to an employee who is laid off or terminated without cause. It’s not just a goodwill gesture—it’s often a legal requirement.

In Alberta, employees let go without cause are typically entitled to either:

  • Working notice, where you continue working during the notice period, or
  • Pay in lieu of notice, which comes in the form of a severance package.

But here’s the catch: the Employment Standards Code outlines the minimums. Under common law, many employees are entitled to much more—especially if you’ve worked for years or held a senior position.

Let’s say you worked for 6 years as a manager at a business in Oliver or Glenora. The Code might suggest a few weeks’ pay—but common law might say you deserve several months.

Severance Package in Alberta

Who’s Eligible for a Severance Package in Alberta?

You don’t have to work for a giant corporation to be eligible. Whether you’re with a local shop in Bonnie Doon or a startup in the Brewery District, you may qualify if:

  • You were terminated without cause
  • You had a consistent work schedule
  • You weren’t part of a union (unionized jobs have different rules)

Here are examples of folks we’ve helped:

  • A retail employee in West Edmonton Mall with 3 years of service
  • A tradesperson in northeast Edmonton laid off due to restructuring
  • A remote worker for an Alberta-based company whose role was suddenly eliminated

In all cases, they were entitled to more than their employers initially offered. That’s why it’s vital to have your severance package reviewed—because the first offer is rarely the best one..

Severance Package in Alberta: Are You Eligible?

You can also read more on Alberta.ca’s Employment Standards to understand your minimum entitlements.

Why It’s a Mistake to Accept the First Offer

When you lose your job, emotions run high. It’s tempting to take whatever’s offered so you can move on. But doing so could cost you thousands.

Your severance entitlement depends on things like:

  • Your role and responsibilities
  • Length of service
  • Your age (older employees often receive more due to job market challenges)

Let’s be real: employers don’t always get it right. A former client who worked for a tech firm in downtown Edmonton was offered two weeks’ pay after four years of service. After we stepped in, they received four months’ pay.

Your severance package should reflect your real-world job prospects and career history—not just your last pay stub.knows the local landscape. At Abougoush Law, we’re not some big downtown firm where you’re just a case number. We’re based right here in Edmonton, and we understand the realities of Alberta’s job market.

Severance Package in Alberta

How Abougoush Law Can Help Edmonton Workers

At Abougoush Law, we pride ourselves on offering personalized legal guidance to Edmontonians. We’re not a national firm with call centers—you’ll speak with someone who actually lives and works here.

Here’s what you can expect:

  • A free initial consultation
  • A plain-English breakdown of your severance package
  • No-pressure advice on next steps

From South Edmonton Common to Alberta Avenue, we’ve got your back.ce package.

Severance Package in Alberta

Frequently Asked Questions About Severance Packages

Can I get a severance package if I quit?
Not usually—unless you were essentially forced to resign due to major changes at work or a toxic environment. That might qualify as constructive dismissal.

What if I was on probation?
If you’ve been employed for less than 90 days, severance rights don’t typically apply. But always ask—we’ve seen exceptions.

How much time do I have to take action?
There are strict time limits—so don’t delay. Reach out for a review as soon as possible.

Ready to Review Your Severance Package? Let’s Talk.

Before you sign anything, talk to someone who understands Alberta’s employment laws. At Abougoush Law, we’ll help you figure out if your severance package is fair—and fight for more if it’s not.

📞 Call today (780) 964-7575 for a free review or visit us in person—right here in Edmonton.

This article is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. To discuss your specific situation, please reach out to Abougoush Law directly.