Employees who are terminated at the initiative of their employer have certain rights: final pay, health insurance renewal, severance pay, unemployment compensation, etc. Learn more about a number of steps that can help protect the rights of employees in the United States after losing their jobs

Working in the United States is a dream come true. There are currently more than 30 million foreign workers in the country. On average, about 1.5 million new residents come to America per year, the majority are citizens of India, Mexico, China, Canada, and Japan, and many expats also come to the United States from the EU.

For many private sector workers in the United States, losing their jobs is an unpredictable event due to the possibility of instant dismissal without warning or reason. Some employers give advance notice of their intention to terminate an employee, while others act unexpectedly. This instability can lead to unpredictable difficulties for employees. This situation arises due to the lack of guaranteed employee rights in the event of dismissal, except in cases of discrimination. It is important for those facing job loss to learn about their rights and the protections that may be provided by law in such situations.

Employment at will for employees in the United States

Employment in the private sector often means that an employer can terminate the employment relationship "at will" at any time and for any reason, as long as it does not violate the law and the agreement between the parties. However, there are situations when dismissal may be considered illegal. Firstly, if the terms of employment are regulated by a contract, the court takes into account the promise of continued cooperation and the employer's compliance with its own practice of terminating employment.

Dismissal may also be unlawful if it violates public order, for example, in cases where an employee serves as a juror, is in the military, or has expressed an opinion on illegal actions. Additionally, the dismissal may violate laws prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, age, national origin, disability, or religion, which protect employees at the federal and state level.

In addition, if the dismissal is in retaliation for legally protected actions by the employee, such as reporting violations, such as sexual harassment or OSHA violations, the employer may not take such action. In such situations, it is important to know your rights and use them to ensure fairness.

Final pay for terminated employees in the United States

Many states have laws governing the payment of final severance payments to employees upon termination. Determining when this payment is due depends on the circumstances of the termination of employment. For example, in Connecticut, an employee who decides to leave his or her job on his or her own accord is entitled to a final payment on the next business day after the termination.

It is important to keep in mind that each state has its own rules. In California, for example, an employer must pay an employee if he or she has been dismissed or has given notice of his or her voluntary resignation at least 72 hours in advance. If the employee does not give notice, the employer must issue a final payment within 72 hours.

It is important to carefully check the regulatory framework of your state, as the agreements between the employer and the employee set forth in the employment contract may affect the application of the applicable laws. Knowing your state's rules and requirements for final severance payments will help avoid misunderstandings and ensure fairness between employer and employee.

Severance pay in the United States

A severance package is an agreement between an employer and an employee that defines the terms of termination. Typically, this agreement stipulates that the employer provides compensation to the former employee, and the latter waives any claims. In addition to monetary compensation, severance payments may include health insurance, regular benefits, and outplacement programs.

Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), employers are not required to provide severance pay. This decision often depends on the terms and conditions set forth in an individual agreement between the parties. An employee may be entitled to severance pay if it is provided for in writing, in the job description, or in an oral promise by the employer.

Many companies, although not required by law, offer severance pay. The amount of compensation may depend on the length of service and the reason for dismissal. Some companies may provide a payment based on the number of years worked. Understanding the terms of severance pay is important for both employers and employees to ensure a fair and equitable end to the employment relationship.

Health insurance for employees after termination of employment in the United States

Terminated employees may be eligible for post-employment health insurance coverage through the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) of 1986. Under this law, which applies to companies with 20 or more employees, laid-off workers are able to continue health insurance coverage for a limited period for themselves and their families. However, former employees are required to cover the full cost of health insurance, which is typically up to 102 percent of the plan's cost. This option allows for access to medical services during the transition period after dismissal.

Unemployment compensation after a layoff in the United States

Laid-off employees can use unemployment compensation to partially compensate for lost income during the period of searching for a new job. This option allows the unemployed to receive a certain level of financial support based on previous wages and determined by interest over a certain period, which can last up to 26 weeks.

Usually, unemployment compensation is less than the employee's regular salary. Such assistance is temporary and may be paid for a certain period until the person finds a new job. If an unemployed worker has the appropriate qualifications, he or she may be given the opportunity to continue receiving unemployment compensation for up to 20 weeks. This system promotes financial stability during the transition period between jobs.

How can I protect my rights after being laid off in the United States?

Losing a job can cause stress and significant emotional damage to an employee. But it is important to remember that you always have rights, regardless of the circumstances. If you believe that your rights have been violated because of your job loss, you can seek legal assistance. Finding support from an employment lawyer can be the first step in asserting your rights and restoring your dignity. Do not hesitate to seek legal assistance today, as it can be an important step in protecting your interests.

---

Apply for a tourist visa on our Visit World service.

Write to the manager on the Hotline and he will select a visa for you.

Contact via Whatsapp

Contact us via Facebook

---

Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

Checklist for obtaining a visa and necessary documents in the United States;

Legal advice on business issues in the United States;

Travel insurance for foreigners in the United States;

Medical insurance around the world.

---

More articles on the topic: 

Car insurance for foreign drivers in the USA: what you need to know.
What are the employment opportunities in the USA for foreigners?

The United States needs more migrants to address labor shortages.

The American health care system: an in-depth guide for expats.

Scholarships for International Students in the USA for 2024/2025.

The foreign housing exclusion: a guide for American expats.