A written redundancy notice is generally required at least two weeks before termination, while the Minimum Notice Acts can entitle an employee to one to eight weeks based on service. Use the longest applicable statutory or contractual protection for the case.
Two notice rules can be relevant
Redundancy legislation requires written notice of redundancy. Separately, minimum-notice law sets the period an employer must give before termination, based on continuous service. The redundancy label does not remove the broader notice entitlement.
Employer minimum notice by service
| Continuous service | Minimum notice |
|---|---|
| 13 weeks to less than 2 years | 1 week |
| 2 years to less than 5 years | 2 weeks |
| 5 years to less than 10 years | 4 weeks |
| 10 years to less than 15 years | 6 weeks |
| 15 years or more | 8 weeks |
If the contract promises longer notice, that longer term should also be checked.
Worked example
An employee with 11 years’ continuous service falls in the six-week employer notice band. A two-week written redundancy notification would not by itself reduce that separate minimum-notice entitlement.
Working notice and payment in lieu
The employee may work during notice, be placed on garden leave under the contract, or receive payment in lieu where properly arranged. Each option can produce a different last day physically worked, but the termination date and payment should be confirmed in writing.
Leaving before redundancy takes effect
Leaving early can put a redundancy payment at risk. WRC guidance specifically warns employees to notify the employer in writing using the relevant procedure if they decide to leave before the redundancy notice expires. Get advice before assuming a new start date is harmless.
What the termination package should separate
- Wages through the termination date.
- Notice worked or payment in lieu.
- Statutory redundancy and any ex-gratia addition.
- Outstanding annual leave.
- Expenses, commission or other contractual sums.
Calculate the employer notice minimum
Enter continuous service and compare the result with the contractual notice period.
Check notice periodFrequently asked questions
How much redundancy notice should I receive?
Employer minimum notice ranges from one to eight weeks according to continuous service, and a longer contract term may apply. Redundancy notification must also be in writing.
Is redundancy notice always two weeks?
No. Two weeks is associated with written redundancy notification, but the separate Minimum Notice Acts can require a longer period.
Can I be paid instead of working notice?
Payment in lieu may be used where properly arranged. The amount and termination date should be set out clearly.
Can I leave early for a new job?
Leaving before the redundancy date can risk entitlement. Follow the written statutory procedure and obtain advice before doing so.
Does redundancy pay include unused annual leave?
No. Outstanding annual leave is a separate final-pay item.
Official sources
Rules and thresholds can change. Check the source that applies to your circumstances before making an important decision.
Important: This guide provides general information for workers in Ireland. It does not replace your contract, payroll records, official guidance or advice on a disputed or unusual case.