Key Takeaways
- You legally have time before signing anything—use it
- Emotional decisions in the first 24 hours are usually wrong
- Gather information now, decide later
Last updated: December 2025
The First 24 Hours: Action Checklist
"What should I do first?" — The most common question
DO These Things (First 24 Hours)
Before you leave the building (or virtual meeting):
| Action | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Don't sign anything | You have 21+ days legally for ADEA (if 40+) |
| Ask for severance docs in writing | Email, not just verbal promises |
| Get HR contact info | Name, email, phone for questions later |
| Document your access end date | When will email/systems be cut off? |
| Ask about company equipment | Return timeline, what to keep |
Within the first 24 hours:
| Action | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Screenshot/export work contacts | Before access is cut |
| Save any documentation | Performance reviews, commendations (legally yours) |
| Forward personal emails | Sent from work account that you need |
| Note your last day and final paycheck date | Critical for benefits timing |
| Tell your spouse/partner | They need to know; don't carry this alone |
DON'T Do These Things
| Avoid | Why |
|---|---|
| Don't sign severance immediately | You have time—use it to understand and negotiate |
| Don't vent on social media | It can hurt your job search and burn bridges |
| Don't badmouth your employer | To anyone, anywhere—it will get back to them |
| Don't panic-sell investments | Market timing in emotional states is always wrong |
| Don't apply to 50 jobs immediately | Quality > quantity; you're not thinking clearly yet |
| Don't make major life decisions | Moving, major purchases, career pivots—wait |
The Legal Time You Have
If you're 40 or older, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) requires:
- Individual layoff: 21 days to review severance
- Mass layoff: 45 days to review severance
- 7-day revocation period after you sign
This is federal law. They cannot legally pressure you to sign faster.
Even if you're under 40, most companies expect a few days for review. "I'd like a few days to review this" is a completely normal request.
Test Your Knowledge
Under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), how long does someone 40 or older have to review a severance agreement in an individual layoff?
A
B
C
D