Employer Advice on Terminating Employees

Laying Off an Employee in Ontario? Get Free Employer Advice

Layoffs are tough — but making the wrong move can cost your business

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Put your mind at ease and focus on making your business a success.

Before you issue a layoff notice, speak to an expert. We’ll guide you through the legal steps, provide compliant documents, and help you avoid common (and costly) mistakes — at no cost to you.

Ontario Layoff Rules Are Clear — If You Know Them

The Employment Standards Act (ESA) has strict rules around layoffs:

Temporary layoffs in Ontario can last: o Up to 13 weeks in a 20-week period, or o Up to 35 weeks in 52 weeks if benefits continue
Layoffs require proper written notice
If mishandled, a layoff could be seen as termination or constructive dismissal

If your contracts don’t include a layoff clause, you could face legal claims. Not sure? Call us now.

Mistakes Employers Make When Laying Off Staff

Using the wrong layoff letter or notice
Assuming part-time or probationary staff don’t qualify for ESA protections
Failing to extend benefits during the layoff period
Not realizing the layoff has turned into a termination
Communicating layoffs the wrong way — creating resentment or risk

Don’t leave it to chance. One quick call can save you thousands.

Need a Layoff Letter? Don’t Copy One Online.

We can provide custom layoff letters, written to meet ESA requirements in Ontario. We’ll also give you a script so you can have a clear, professional conversation — without overstepping.

Get Advice on:

How to lay off an employee legally
Layoffs vs. terminations in Ontario
ESA layoff rules and notice requirements
Constructive dismissal and how to avoid it
Best practices for communicating a layoff
Layoff rules for full-time, part-time, or seasonal staff
Free templates for letters and notices

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We’ve helped over 6,500 Canadian employers — just like you — handle layoffs legally and respectfully.

Our team is based in Canada and understands Ontario's labour laws inside out.

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Laying Someone Off? Start with a Conversation

One 10-minute call with us can help you:

Avoid a wrongful dismissal claim
Feel confident in what you’re doing
Protect your business and your employee
Save time, stress, and legal costs

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We’ve helped over 6,500 Canadian businesses grow by taking the load of HR compliance off their backs. Call our experienced advisors today and get answers to all your HR queries.