Severance Package Evaluator
Find out if your severance offer is fair for your industry and tenure.
Severance Package Evaluator — Is Your Offer Fair?
Got laid off? Your severance offer probably has room to improve. Industry norms vary: tech typically pays 2–4 weeks per year of service; finance is similar; retail is often just 1 week per year. This calculator shows you the market range and what to negotiate.
How to use this tool
- 1
Enter salary, years served, and offered severance
From your separation agreement.
- 2
Pick industry and seniority
Both heavily affect the standard.
- 3
See fair-offer estimate and assessment
Above market, fair, or below market.
Pro tips
- Most severance offers are negotiable — even if HR says 'this is standard,' it isn't.
- Always negotiate non-cash items: COBRA coverage, extended option exercise window, outplacement, references.
- Federal OWBPA law requires 21 days to review (and 45 if part of a group layoff) if you're 40+.
- Never sign on the spot — have an employment lawyer review the agreement.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to accept the first offer?
Almost never. Most severance agreements have 21–45 days to consider. Negotiate.
Is severance taxable?
Yes — taxed as ordinary income, with withholding at supplemental rate (usually 22% federal flat).
Can I collect unemployment AND severance?
Most states allow both, though severance may delay the start of unemployment benefits. Check your state rules.
Related Tools
Salary Negotiation Counter-Offer Calculator
Calculate the perfect counter-offer based on market rates and 30-year lifetime impact.
Job Offer Comparison Tool
Compare two job offers including base, bonus, equity, 401k, health, and PTO.
Remote Work Savings Calculator
Calculate annual savings from working from home — fuel, lunch, clothing, time.