How to Negotiate a Severance Package in English
Learn the English phrases for reviewing a severance offer, asking clarifying questions, and negotiating better terms during a layoff or termination.
A severance offer usually arrives during an emotionally difficult conversation, which makes it tempting to sign quickly just to end the discomfort. But severance terms are often negotiable, and reviewing them calmly protects you financially during the transition. This guide gives you the English to slow the conversation down and negotiate.
Slowing the Conversation Down
Don’t sign anything in the meeting where it’s presented — ask for time and the details in writing.
- “I understand. Before I respond, can you send me the full severance agreement in writing?”
- “I’d like some time to review this properly — is there a deadline for when I need to respond?”
- “This is a lot to process right now. Can we schedule a follow-up once I’ve had a chance to read everything?”
Asking About Each Component
A severance package usually has several separate parts — ask about each explicitly rather than accepting a single headline number.
- “Can you break down what’s included — is this just salary continuation, or does it include benefits and unused PTO?”
- “How is the health insurance handled during this period — is it covered, or am I responsible for COBRA costs?”
- “What happens to my unvested equity — is any of it being accelerated, or does it lapse entirely?”
Understanding the Release You’re Signing
Severance agreements typically require signing a release of claims — understand what you’re giving up before agreeing.
- “What exactly am I waiving by signing this release, and how long do I have to consider it?”
- “Is there a standard revocation period after signing, in case I want to reconsider?”
- “Does this release cover only employment claims, or is it broader than that?”
Making a Specific Ask
Rather than a vague request for “more,” ask for a specific, justified change to the terms.
- “Given my tenure here, I’d like to request an additional month of salary continuation.”
- “Would the company consider extending the health coverage period by two months instead of one?”
- “I’d like to ask that the non-compete clause be narrowed, given how specific my role was.”
Requesting Support Beyond the Number
Severance negotiations aren’t only about money — other terms can matter just as much.
- “Would the company be open to providing outplacement support as part of this package?”
- “Can we agree on the wording of a reference I could use for future applications?”
- “I’d like to request that my departure be framed as a mutual decision rather than a termination, if possible.”
Closing the Negotiation Professionally
However it lands, end the conversation in a way that preserves the relationship and your reputation.
- “Thank you for working through this with me — I appreciate you considering these requests.”
- “I want to handle this transition professionally, and I appreciate the flexibility on these terms.”
- “Regardless of how this settles, I’ve valued my time here and want to leave things on good terms.”
Vocabulary Reference
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Severance package | Pay and benefits offered to an employee upon termination, often in exchange for signing a release |
| Release of claims | A legal waiver of the right to sue the employer, typically required to receive severance |
| Salary continuation | Severance paid as ongoing paycheck-style installments rather than a lump sum |
| COBRA | US continuation coverage that lets a terminated employee keep employer health insurance, usually at their own cost |
| Outplacement support | Career transition services, like resume help or job search coaching, sometimes included in severance |
Key Takeaways
- Never sign a severance agreement in the meeting where it’s presented — ask for it in writing and take time to review.
- Ask about each component separately: salary, benefits, PTO, and equity treatment.
- Understand exactly what claims you’re releasing and how long you have to consider or revoke.
- Make specific, justified requests rather than a vague ask for “more.”
- Remember severance negotiations can include non-monetary terms like references and outplacement support.