Contract template · Severance Agreements

Free Severance Agreement Template

A Severance Agreement is offered when an employee is laid off or terminated. In exchange for severance pay, the employee signs a release of claims against the company. For employees 40+, the OWBPA requires specific waiver language.

What's in a Severance Agreement?

A typical severance agreement covers the following key clauses:

Severance amount and payment timing
Release of claims against employer
Continued benefits (COBRA)
Return of company property
Non-disparagement (mutual or one-way)
ADEA waiver if employee is 40+

Pick your industry

We've prepared an industry-tailored version of the Severance Agreement for each of the 20 industries below. Click your industry to see the industry-specific considerations and a downloadable template.

Related contract templates

Legal disclaimer: This template is provided for general informational purposes and is not legal advice. Laws vary by state and country, and contract enforceability depends on specifics that this template can't anticipate. For high-stakes contracts, consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.

Stay Ahead With RealProfits

Get practical insights, new tools, and smarter ways to think about money, work, and your future.