Everyone is imbued with the holiday spirit this time of year. Everyone it seems, except our large corporate employers. In our experience during the festive season, precisely 6 weeks before the end of the year, more pink slips are handed out than any other period in the calendar year. They fly out like confetti at a Santa Clause parade. So once again we note, t’is the season to be fired.
If you intend to continue working past age 65, until recently, your employer could legally cut off your disability and life insurance benefits. A recent Human Rights ruling has made the matter a bit more difficult them.
Illness and disability may cause you to take time off from work. During this time, you will be particularly vulnerable. Sadly, some employers act shortsightedly in such circumstances. Pegging you as “damaged goods”, a few may try to frustrate you into an unwilling resignation. Others may block you from accessing your disability benefits. And the worst offenders will outright fire you while you are ill.
Are you prepared financially if you cannot work due to an illness or accident that has left you temporarily or permanently disabled? Most Ontario workers are not. Here is where to seek income support in the wake of such circumstances.
If you believe your termination package is inadequate, you have two avenues to seek resolution. You can file a claim with the Ministry of Labour, commonly referred to as the Labour Board. Or you can hire an employment lawyer. The Labour Board process is free and you can easily file your papers on-line. However, before you proceed down this path, understand the limitations.
Almost always, employers require a signed employment agreement as a condition of employment. If yours contains a non compete clause, seek legal advice before you sign, especially if you want to keep your options open about working for the competition.
