Federal courts usually have held that the company retains its right, under the common law governing formation of contracts, to revoke an offer of a severance agreement during the 21 day review period mandated by the Older Workers Benefits Protection Act.
In addition, employees over 40 being terminated as part of a group or class of employees (more than one) are entitled to a consideration period of 45 days. Even if they sign the agreement within the 45-day period, they are entitled to an additional 7 days to revoke the agreement.
If you're under 40, you get five days to review a severance agreement. If you're over 40, you get 21 days. #EmploymentLawyer #California.
Thankfully, in California, employers are required to follow certain rules when offering severance agreements to older employees, including providing time to consider the agreement and the option to consult with an attorney.
Under the Federal Age Discrimination in Employment Act (``ADEA''), if you are over 40, you have a minimum of 21 days to consider the severance offer and 7 days after signing to revoke the acceptance. Use that 21 days (or possibly 45 days if 2 or more employees or being laid off) to seek legal counsel.
Severance packages are typically offered to executives and employees who are laid off due to downsizing or restructuring. They are not usually offered to people who resign or who are fired for poor performance or other causes. Our California employment attorneys offer a Severance Package Review & Consultation.