BC severance entitlement?

I was just recently asked what was the statutory requirement for severance in British Columbia.  Yes, I agree, it is a strange time of year to be thinking about this but with the recession in full swing and companies considering layoffs it is what it is.

Fortunately, the Government of BC puts out a great fact sheet on Termination of Employment in BC.  But to summarize:

An employee who is terminated may be eligible for compensation based on the following formula:

> After three consecutive months of employment – one week’s pay;

> After 12 consecutive months of employment – two weeks’ pay;

> After three consecutive years – three weeks’ pay, plus one week’s pay for each additional year of employment to a maximum of eight weeks.

As this person was under the belief they may be ‘temporarily laid off’ she was concerned about how much severance she would be getting.  So, please read the fine print!  If your employer is suggesting the period be longer than 13 weeks you are considered terminated per the above standards (and should receive compensation accordingly).  If it is less than 13 weeks (and they can guarantee that in writing) then go apply for EI and wait it out.

I hope that helps!