Severance Negotiation Email Sample: How to Ask for Fair Compensation

Are you in the midst of a layoff or just got your walking papers? Whatever the circumstances, severance is likely on the table. And negotiating severance can make a huge difference in your financial future. But how do you navigate this process? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with severance negotiation email samples and templates that you can use to get started. Just head to our website and find examples that you can easily edit to fit your specific situation. While it may feel daunting to negotiate your exit, a well-crafted email can make all the difference in securing the best deal possible. So, take a deep breath, and let’s get started on crafting the perfect severance negotiation email.

The Best Structure for Severance Negotiation Email Sample

When it comes to negotiating a severance package, it is essential to have a well-structured email that outlines your needs and expectations. The following is the best structure for a successful severance negotiation email:

1. Start with a clear subject line

Your subject line is your first impression, so make it count. Make sure it is clear and concise, so the recipient knows exactly what the email is about. A suitable subject line for a severance negotiation email could be “Severance Package Negotiation Request.”

2. Begin with a polite introduction

Starting your email with a polite introduction sets the right tone for your negotiation. Begin with a simple greeting followed by a thank you message. Keep it brief and to the point.

3. Explain your situation

Next, explain your situation and why you feel a severance package is necessary. If you have worked for the company for an extended period, you can mention your loyalty and dedication to the organization. Highlight any achievements during your tenure.

4. Outline your demands

It is vital to ask for what you want. Clearly outline your demands, including the specific amount you are looking for as part of your severance package. Be reasonable, and use market standards as a benchmark. You can also mention any other benefits you believe you are entitled to.

5. Provide a justification for your request

Your demands should be backed up by a justification so that the employer can understand why you need them. If you were terminated from the job, mention any extenuating circumstances that led to it. If you resigned voluntarily, explain why you had to take this step.

6. Offer a counter-proposal

While making your demands, it’s always good to offer a counter-proposal. For example, if you are asking for a higher severance package, you can negotiate a shorter notice period or agree to sign a non-compete clause that prevents you from working with their competitors.

7. Close with a polite ending and a call-to-action

In the end, thank the employer for their time and consideration. Close with a polite ending and a call-to-action, requesting a reply with the company’s decision on the matter.

In conclusion, a well-structured severance negotiation email is crucial for achieving your desired results. The above tips will help you craft the perfect email that can help you secure the best possible severance package.

Severance Negotiation Email for Retirement

Request for Severance Benefits for Retirement

Dear Human Resources Team,

I am writing to express my intention to retire from the company after [number of years worked]. After much thought and consideration, I have decided that this is the best move for me and my family.

As per the company’s policies and procedures, I would like to request for a thorough review of my retirement package and severance benefits.

It is important for me to receive fair compensation for my hard work and dedication to the company over the years, and I hope that we can come to an agreement that is mutually acceptable.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Severance Negotiation Email for Layoff

Request for Severance Benefits due to Layoff

Dear Human Resources Team,

I am writing to express my disappointment to learn that my position will be eliminated as part of the company’s restructuring efforts. I have worked diligently and dedicatedly for the company, and I am sad to leave under these circumstances.

As per the company’s policies and procedures, I would like to request for a thorough review of my severance benefits. It is important for me to receive fair compensation for my hard work and contribution to the company, and I hope that we can come to an agreement that is mutually acceptable.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the support and guidance you have provided me over the years, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Severance Negotiation Email for Medical Reasons

Request for Severance Benefits for Medical Reasons

Dear Human Resources Team,

I am writing to inform you of my health condition that has been affecting my performance at work. Despite my best efforts to cope, my condition has worsened to a point where it is no longer feasible for me to continue working.

As per the company’s policies and procedures, I would like to request for a thorough review of my severance benefits. I hope that we can come to an agreement that is mutually acceptable and that the company will not unduly penalize me for my health condition.

Thank you for your understanding and support during this challenging time. I appreciate all the opportunities that the company has given me, and I hope that we can part on good terms.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Severance Negotiation Email for Family Reasons

Request for Severance Benefits for Family Reasons

Dear Human Resources Team,

I am writing to inform you of my decision to leave the company due to personal reasons related to my family. I have worked diligently and dedicatedly for the company, and I am sad to leave under these circumstances.

As per the company’s policies and procedures, I would like to request for a thorough review of my severance benefits. It is important for me to receive fair compensation for my hard work and contribution to the company, and I hope that we can come to an agreement that is mutually acceptable.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the support and guidance you have provided me over the years, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Severance Negotiation Email for Workplace Harassment

Request for Severance Benefits due to Workplace Harassment

Dear Human Resources Team,

I am writing to inform you of the harassment and discrimination I have experienced at the workplace, which has resulted in a hostile work environment. Despite my best efforts to address the situation, the company has failed to take adequate measures to protect me.

As per the company’s policies and procedures, I would like to request for a thorough review of my severance benefits. It is important for me to receive fair compensation for the emotional and psychological trauma that I have endured while working at the company.

I hope that we can come to an agreement that is mutually acceptable and that the company will take steps to prevent such incidents from happening in the future.

Thank you for your understanding and support during this challenging time.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Severance Negotiation Email for Personal Reasons

Request for Severance Benefits for Personal Reasons

Dear Human Resources Team,

I am writing to inform you of my decision to leave the company due to personal reasons. While I have enjoyed my time working here, it is time for me to move on and explore new opportunities.

As per the company’s policies and procedures, I would like to request for a thorough review of my severance benefits. I hope that we can come to an agreement that is mutually acceptable and that the company will not unduly penalize me for my decision to leave.

Thank you for your understanding and support during this transitional period. I appreciate all the opportunities that the company has given me, and I hope that we can part on good terms.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Severance Negotiation Email for Contract Dispute

Request for Severance Benefits due to Contract Dispute

Dear Human Resources Team,

I am writing to express my concern regarding the current contract dispute between me and the company. Despite my best efforts to resolve the matter amicably, it seems that we have reached an impasse.

As per the company’s policies and procedures, I would like to request for a thorough review of my severance benefits. It is important for me to receive fair compensation for the services rendered to the company, and I hope that we can come to an agreement that is mutually acceptable.

I appreciate the opportunities that the company has given me, and I hope that we can resolve this matter in a professional and respectful manner.

Thank you for your time and attention regarding this matter.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Tips for Creating a Severance Negotiation Email Sample

When writing a severance negotiation email sample, it is important to be thorough and strategic in your approach. Here are some tips to help you negotiate the best possible severance package:

  • Do your research: Researching the average severance package for your position and industry can help you determine what type of offer to negotiate. This can also give you leverage when negotiating with your employer.
  • Be clear and concise: Use clear and concise language when outlining your reasons for requesting a higher severance package. Make sure to avoid any emotional language or unnecessary information that could detract from your message.
  • Be confident: Displaying confidence in your email can help you negotiate a better severance package. This can be done by using confident language and making it clear what you are looking for in terms of compensation.
  • Use bullet points: Bullet points can help you organize your thoughts and make it easier for your employer to understand your requests. This can also make it easier for them to respond and negotiate with you.
  • Consider offering something in return: If you are asking for more than the standard severance package, consider offering something in return. This could be in the form of a longer transition period or keeping certain information confidential.
  • Seek legal advice: If you are unsure about your rights or the legal implications of your severance package, seek advice from an employment lawyer. They can help you navigate your negotiations and ensure that you receive the best possible outcome.

By following these tips, you can create a strong and effective severance negotiation email sample. Remember to be confident in your requests and be willing to negotiate with your employer.

Severance Negotiation Email Sample FAQs


What should I include in my severance negotiation email?

Your severance negotiation email should include your request for a specific amount of severance pay, a breakdown of how you arrived at that amount, any additional benefits or considerations you would like to negotiate, and your desired timeline for receiving a response.

Is it appropriate to negotiate for additional benefits besides severance pay?

Yes, it is appropriate to negotiate for additional benefits such as extended healthcare coverage, additional pay for unused vacation days, and career coaching services. Make sure to include these requests in your email and explain why they are important to you.

What tone should I use in my severance negotiation email?

Your tone should be professional and polite. Avoid being confrontational or demanding. Clearly state your position and reasons for negotiation in a respectful manner. Remember that you are more likely to get what you want if you approach negotiation as a collaborative effort rather than a contentious one.

How long should I give the company to respond to my severance negotiation email?

Typically, it is reasonable to give the company at least a week to respond to your request. Depending on the complexity of the negotiations, it may take longer. Be patient and follow up politely if you haven’t heard back after a reasonable amount of time.

What should I do if the company denies my severance request?

If the company denies your request for severance, try to understand their reasoning and see if there are any alternative benefits they are willing to offer. If you are not satisfied with the outcome, consider seeking legal advice or mediation services to help you negotiate a better deal.

Can I negotiate for a better reference or recommendation letter?

Yes, it is possible to negotiate for a better reference or recommendation letter as part of your severance package. Explain why a positive reference or letter would benefit you in your future job search and ask the company if they would be open to providing this benefit.

Should I follow up with the company after negotiating my severance package?

Yes, it is a good idea to follow up with the company after negotiating your severance package to confirm the terms and make sure everything is documented in writing. Make sure to express your gratitude for the company’s cooperation and willingness to negotiate.

Thanks for Sticking with Us!

We hope this severance negotiation email sample gave you some insight and ideas on how to approach the delicate and often stressful situation of negotiating a severance package. Remember, it’s always important to get what you deserve and to advocate for yourself during this process. Don’t hesitate to contact us for any questions or concerns you may have. Thanks for reading, and please visit us again soon for more useful tips and tricks!