How can i differentiate whether i was fired or whether i was layed off?

Question

I was given my check at the time i was told that i was being let go. The reason i think i was layed-off, is because i didnt mess up or show up late or anything like that, on that day or even the days before it. I was also told that, "This was the first time he had to let someone go because it was so slow." Help me please.

Answer 1

you were layed off.. He said that he let you go because it was "slow" meaning that he didn't have enough work to do or enough buisness to keep you employed.

Answer 2

They should have give you a written reason why they let you go and was it a lay off or fired. I am guessing you were laid off due to he said it was slow which tells me the business is not doing so well other wise they would have told you were fired. They by law must give a written reason for the lay off or fired which they didn't to you. You should go back there and ask for a written statement for the reason of being let go and was it a lay off or fired. If they don't file a complaint under the employment standard board if you are in Canada, but in the USA look for something similar to Employment board or go to Human Rights Center to find out how you can file a complaint.

Answer 3

It sounds to me like your employer did not do a good job of letting you go. It doesn't sound like you were fired since you were told it was slow. Since it was your employer's first time letting someone go, he/she didn't know how to go about it correctly and professionally. Definetly schedule a meeting with them and your personnel/HR dept. You are entitled to know exactly why were were dismissed and you deserve more than to be told through a letter or just assuming.

Answer 4

Sounds like your employer may have had an issue with youn regarding job performance. Call your Human resources dept. and talk with them. It is important for you to ascertain whether you were laid off (cutbacks in staff etc.) or fired (for reason)
Did you get any severeance pay. How long were you on the job

Answer 5

Fired: not eligible for severance, may not be eligible for for rehire
If vacation time is accrued, you get paid for it. If vacation time is only paid leave, there's no money for it. Your former position may or may not exist after you leave.

Laid off: There should be a severance package (money, health coverage, outplacement assistance). You should be eligible for rehire. Your former position is eliminated.

In the absence of any performance-related issues, you were laid off as part of expense reduction by the company.

Answer 6

Depending on how long you worked there, and what state you worked in, check with the local office of unemployment, they should have a status report under your social security. GOOD LUCK!