Leaving a job
Resigning, layoffs, separation agreements, severance and garden leave.
Resigning
Follow the step-by-step guide for your path in the Candidate Hub: U.S., Italia or italiani negli USA. Before you resign, check bonus dates, vesting dates and your option exercise window.
Separation agreements
Severance is usually paid in exchange for a release of claims. If you're 40 or older, federal law gives you at least 21 days to consider it (45 in group layoffs) and 7 days to revoke after signing. Negotiate: more pay, COBRA coverage, equity vesting, a neutral reference and outplacement.
If you're laid off
Ask for the separation terms in writing, don't sign on the spot, confirm your last day of health coverage, and file for unemployment quickly. On a visa, call an immigration attorney the same day (60-day grace period).
Garden leave & notice
Some senior agreements require longer notice or paid "garden leave" during which you stay employed but don't work. Your new start date must fit around it.
How-to guides
How toNegotiate severance when you are let go
- Don't sign on the spot. Ask for the agreement in writing and take the review time you are entitled to.
- List your leverage: length of service, performance, unvested equity, bonus earned, potential claims, visa impact.
- Ask for more weeks of pay, COBRA premiums, pro-rated bonus, equity vesting, outplacement and an agreed reference.
- Clarify non-compete and non-solicit obligations; ask for them to be waived or narrowed.
- Have an employment lawyer review it if the amounts are significant.
How toLeave with your reputation intact
- Tell your manager first, then agree on how and when the team hears.
- Write a thorough handover document.
- Stay fully engaged until your last day.
- Say thank you personally to key colleagues and stay connected on LinkedIn.
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Information reviewed September 2026. General information only, not legal, immigration, tax or financial advice. Laws change frequently and vary by state and personal situation; consult qualified professionals.