What happened at work? Start here.
Pick what just happened and see the deadline that matters, what to do first, and the law that protects you under the Employment Standards Act, 2000.
Banks, airlines, telecom, interprovincial transport → federally regulated.
Fired or let go
Employment Standards Act, 2000 · Ministry of Labour
The deadline that matters
Do this first
- 1Keep everything in writingSave the termination letter, your contract, pay stubs, and any emails about performance.
- 2Note your exact last dayDeadlines count from the termination date. Write it down before anything else.
- 3Understand ESA vs common lawStatutory minimums are a floor, not a ceiling. The information here explains the difference.
The law that protects you
"An employer shall not terminate the employment of an employee… unless the employer has given… written notice of termination…"
Legal information, not legal advice. Deadlines and sections shown are general and vary by situation; confirm against the current statute or a licensed professional.
Protections that apply, whatever happened
Most employees are entitled to written notice or pay in lieu — and often more than the statutory minimum under common law.
Employers generally cannot make deductions you did not authorize in writing, and unpaid wages can be recovered.
It is generally unlawful to punish you for asking about wages, safety, or a leave you are entitled to.
Employers must have a harassment policy and investigate complaints. Human-rights protections apply across Canada.
Did This Help You?
MyWorkRights.ca is free for every Canadian employee. Your support helps keep legal information accessible to everyone.
Donations processed securely via KnowMyRights.ca