Severance Package Weeks Per Year Calculator 2027

Calculate severance package using weeks-per-year-of-service formula 2027 — standard 1-2 weeks/year for layoffs, 4-8 weeks/year for executive separation.

Industry Standards

Tech/finance executive: 4-8 weeks per year of service. Mid-management/director: 2-3 weeks per year. Individual contributor: 1-2 weeks. Non-profit/government: less, often statutory only.

Negotiating Up

Mass layoffs: ask for 50% more (HR has budget approved). Wrongful termination claim: 2-3x more. Older employees (50+): age-discrimination concerns push HR higher. Bring documentation.

Critical Add-Ons

COBRA subsidy 3-6 months (saves $1,800-7,000). PTO payout (unused vacation). 401k vesting acceleration. RSU acceleration. Outplacement services ($2-5k). Job-search time off.

Release Agreement Risks

Non-disparagement, non-compete extension, non-solicitation, NDAs. ALL negotiable. Get employment attorney to review BEFORE signing. Most workers undervalue review ($300-800 attorney bill saves $5-20k).

Source: shrm.org severance benchmarks 2026, executiveseverance.com. Last updated: May 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to sign?

Federal Older Workers Benefit Protection Act: 21 days to review (45 if group layoff), 7-day revocation period after signing. Younger workers may have less. Don't sign at the meeting.

Does severance affect unemployment?

Varies by state. Some delay UI benefits until severance period ends. Some don't. Apply for UI immediately regardless.

What if I refuse to sign?

You forfeit severance. Sometimes worth it: strong wrongful termination/discrimination claim could net 5-10x more. Consult attorney before refusing.