Severance package

[Joesmith_2018]

Hello everybody,
I have searched on the forum and on other websites for the answer to a question I have regarding a severance package I signed May of last year. My end date is coming up and my employer has chosen to extend my end date to the end of this year (2018).
I do not wish to work for my employer any longer after the initial end date which I was really anticipating. The contract states that "on or about May 1st" my employment will end.

My question is, do I have the option to choose not to continue working for my employer and receive the severance package or will I have to stay with the company in order to receive the benefits?

Thank you in advance and please ask me any questions!

Regards,
Joe

 

[cbg]

That is entirely between you and your employer. The law does not take a position on the matter.

BTW, are you absolutely certain that what you have is a legally binding contract and not an employment agreement outlining guidelines?

 

[Joesmith_2018]

Thank you!

What I have is a "Separation and Release Agreement."

My employer did not mention it being a Legal Binding document. How would I be able to tell if it is?

Best regards,
Joe

 

[Joesmith_2018]

That is entirely between you and your employer. The law does not take a position on the matter.

BTW, are you absolutely certain that what you have is a legally binding contract and not an employment agreement outlining guidelines?

Also, I did not sign it in front of a notary. Just signed, scanned and mailed to HR.

Best regards,
Joe

 

[PayrollHRGuy]

A contract does not have to be notarized to be binding.

 

[Zigner]

Also, I did not sign it in front of a notary. Just signed, scanned and mailed to HR.

Best regards,
Joe

The notary would only verify that it was you who signed. There is no legal meaning beyond that.

 

[Zigner]

A contract does not have to be notarized to be binding.

Yeah, that.

 

[cbg]

I doubt if you have a contract.

I doubt that your employer will be willing to pay you severance if you leave before your employer wants you to. The purpose of severance is to make you whole if your job comes to an end. It is not to provide you with a windfall if you leave when there is still work available to you.