Severance is always negotiable — it's not a legal entitlement, it's offered in exchange for signing away your claims. That means what they offered first is almost never final.
A severance agreement trades a payment for your signature on a release — and the release is usually the part that matters most. In exchange for the money, you are typically giving up the right to sue over the employment or its ending, and sometimes agreeing to non-disparagement, confidentiality, and continued restrictive covenants. The dollar figure is only half the decision; the terms attached to it are the other half.
Two things deserve a close read: what exactly you are releasing, and what you are still bound by afterward. Watch for broad releases that cover claims you might not know about, clawback or repayment triggers, and non-compete or non-solicit terms that outlive the job. The estimator above frames the payment; the checklist below frames the strings attached.
What this tool looks at:
Usually the right to bring legal claims related to your employment or its end, in exchange for the payment. The scope of that release, and any ongoing obligations, are the terms to read closely.
Often the amount and some terms can be discussed, especially before you sign. The strongest position is understanding exactly what the agreement asks of you first.
Overly broad releases, one-sided non-disparagement, surviving non-competes, and repayment or clawback triggers are common ones worth flagging.
Yes — it can read the agreement, explain the release and restrictive covenants in plain language, and flag the terms worth negotiating. This tool is informational and not legal advice.
This tool is general information, not legal, medical, or financial advice. Rules vary by state and change over time; verify anything important against your state’s current rules or a qualified professional.