Losing your job is tough. Severance pay can help. This letter asks for more.
This article gives you examples. Use them as templates. Write your own perfect letter.
These samples make it easier. You’ll find what you need. Get the severance you deserve.
Sample Letter to Request Additional Severance After Being Terminated
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name or To Whom It May Concern],
I am writing to formally request a reconsideration of the severance package offered following my termination on [Date of Termination]. I understand and appreciate the severance offered. However, I believe a more substantial package is warranted given my contributions to the company over the past [Number] years.
My tenure at [Company Name] was marked by consistent high performance and significant achievements. I consistently exceeded expectations in my role as [Your Job Title], contributing directly to [mention 1-2 key achievements or quantifiable results]. These accomplishments, detailed further in my performance reviews, significantly benefited the company’s bottom line.
My departure was unexpected, leaving me with a significant financial burden. The current severance package, while appreciated, is insufficient to cover the immediate costs associated with finding new employment, including healthcare coverage and living expenses.
Therefore, I respectfully request a review of my severance package. I propose an increase to [State your desired amount or percentage increase] to adequately reflect my years of dedicated service and substantial contributions to [Company Name]’s success. I am confident that a fair and equitable settlement can be reached that recognizes my value to the company. I am available to discuss this further at your earliest convenience.
Thank you for your time and consideration of this important matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
How to Write a Sample Letter to Request Additional Severance After Being Terminated
Understanding Your Entitlement
Before penning your missive, meticulously review your termination paperwork and employment contract. Scrutinize the fine print. These documents are sacrosanct, outlining the specifics of your severance package. Identify any clauses or ambiguities that might support your claim for supplemental compensation. Note any discrepancies between the offered severance and what you believe is justly owed. This groundwork forms the bedrock of your argument.
Crafting a Persuasive Opening
Your opening gambit is crucial. Steer clear of accusatory or emotionally charged language. Begin with a formal salutation, addressing the relevant HR representative or your former superior directly. State your intention concisely: to formally request a reconsideration of your severance package. Establish a professional and respectful tone from the outset; this sets the stage for a productive dialogue.
Articulating Your Case with Precision
This section demands meticulous detail. Present a cogent argument, supporting your claim with concrete evidence. Did you significantly contribute to the company’s success prior to your dismissal? Did you forgo expected promotions or bonuses? Were there unfulfilled promises related to your compensation? Quantify your contributions whenever possible. Use specific examples and dates to bolster your assertions. Avoid hyperbole; stick to verifiable facts.
Highlighting Exceptional Circumstances
If applicable, highlight any extenuating circumstances that warrant additional compensation. Perhaps the termination was unexpected or you faced a period of prolonged job searching due to industry-specific factors. These circumstances, if demonstrably linked to your financial hardship, may strengthen your case. Provide supporting documentation where feasible to substantiate your claims.
Negotiating with Diplomacy
Approach the negotiation as a collaborative endeavor, not an adversarial one. Frame your request as a mutually beneficial solution. Perhaps you can propose a compromise, suggesting a partial increase in severance rather than demanding the full amount you desire. A conciliatory approach often yields better results than an intransigent stance.
Maintaining a Professional Cadence
Throughout the letter, maintain a consistently professional tone. Avoid emotional outbursts or inflammatory rhetoric. Express your gratitude for past opportunities, even while advocating for your own financial well-being. Proofread meticulously before sending—grammatical errors or typos undermine your credibility.
Concluding with a Call to Action
Conclude your letter with a clear call to action, specifying when you expect a response from the recipient and how you prefer to be contacted. Reiterate your willingness to discuss the matter further and express your hope for a favorable resolution. Thank them for their time and consideration. End with a suitably formal closing, such as “Sincerely.”
FAQs about sample letter to request additional severance after being terminated
Requesting additional severance after termination can be a complex process. A well-crafted letter is crucial for increasing your chances of success.
What should I include in a letter requesting additional severance?
Your letter should clearly state your request for additional severance pay, specifying the amount. It should also detail your reasons for the request, such as unforeseen circumstances (e.g., significant medical expenses, unexpected job loss of a spouse), length of service with the company, and any contributions exceeding expectations during your employment. Finally, it should reiterate your appreciation for past opportunities and express your hope for a positive resolution.
When is the best time to send a letter requesting additional severance?
Ideally, you should send the letter within a reasonable timeframe after receiving your initial severance package. This avoids the appearance of trying to exploit the situation and allows ample time for negotiation. However, it is important to check your severance agreement for any deadlines regarding disputes or negotiations.
Should I mention my legal counsel in the letter?
While not strictly necessary, mentioning you have consulted with legal counsel can subtly strengthen your position, particularly if the request involves complex legal implications. However, avoid aggressive or threatening language. The goal is to negotiate, not to antagonize.
What if my initial severance agreement is non-negotiable?
If your severance agreement explicitly states it’s non-negotiable, your chances of receiving additional severance are lower. However, it’s still worthwhile to send a letter explaining your situation and requesting a reconsideration. Maintain a professional and respectful tone. Highlighting extenuating circumstances might still lead to a more favorable outcome, even if the formal agreement stands.
How should I tailor the letter to my specific situation?
Personalize your letter by providing specific details relevant to your circumstances. Generic templates are a starting point, but you must adapt the letter to reflect your unique contributions, the company’s situation, and your personal reasons for needing additional compensation. Quantify your contributions whenever possible and support your claims with verifiable information.
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