Workplace rights, answered.
One question per page, a direct answer up top, and the official source underneath. No forum guesswork.
Termination & Layoffs
Can my employer hold my last paycheck until I return company equipment?
In most states, no — earned wages must be paid by the state's deadline, and unreturned equipment is a separate issue the...
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Discrimination & Harassment
Can a severance agreement stop me from filing an EEOC charge?
No. Per the EEOC's own guidance, no agreement between you and your employer can limit your right to file a charge, testi...
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Termination & Layoffs
Is my employer required to give me severance pay?
Usually not — no federal law requires severance pay, and declining to offer it is legal. Severance is a voluntary trade:...
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Termination & Layoffs
Do I have to sign a severance agreement on the spot?
No — and sign-now-or-lose-it pressure is a red flag. If you're 40 or older, federal law (OWBPA) requires at least 21 day...
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Leave (FMLA, PTO & Sick)
Can I be fired while on FMLA leave?
It depends on the reason. You cannot be fired because you took FMLA leave — but the leave doesn't shield you from a term...
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Termination & Layoffs
Does my employer have to pay out my unused PTO when I leave?
It depends on your state. In California, Colorado, Illinois, Massachusetts and Nebraska, earned vacation is treated as w...
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Termination & Layoffs
Can I be fired without any warning?
Usually yes. Every state except Montana follows at-will employment: an employer may terminate without warning, notice, o...
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Termination & Layoffs
Can my employer withhold my final paycheck?
No — earned wages must be paid. Every state either sets a specific final-paycheck deadline (same-day in California and M...
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