Can My Employer Pull the Offer If I Try to Negotiate?

This is probably our most-asked question—and it’s completely understandable. You’ve just been let go, you’re staring at a severance package, and you’re wondering:

“If I try to negotiate… could they take it all back?”

Here’s the good news:

In most cases, no—they can’t revoke your termination package just because you tried to negotiate it. Let’s break down why—and what to watch for.

1. Your Statutory Minimums Are Protected by Law

No matter what your employer says, they are legally required to provide at least the minimum notice or severance pay required by employment standards legislation (either provincial or federal, depending on your job). This is a non-negotiable legal obligation.

Whether or not you negotiate your package, your employer must provide your statutory minimums.

So even if a negotiation goes sideways or an offer is pulled, you are still entitled to those baseline protections.

2. Enhanced Severance Offers Can Be Pulled—But Rarely Are

Now, here’s the nuance: many employers offer more than the legal minimum, often called an enhanced severance package. This is typically in exchange for you signing a Full and Final Release, giving up the right to sue or make future claims.

And technically, yes—an employer can revoke an enhanced offer before it’s signed, for any reason (or no reason at all).

But in practice? It’s extraordinarily rare.

If an employer was willing to give you that package at termination, they’re usually still willing even after you’ve asked a few reasonable questions or made a counteroffer.

Why? Because…

3. Severance Offers Are Strategic

Most severance offers are calculated and purposeful. Employers often start with a figure that’s just enough to seem generous—while still saving money.

Their goals:

• Minimize risk of legal action

• Get a signed release

• Move on quickly

They expect some negotiation. They’re just hoping you won’t do it.

This is why using a tool like Severease.ca is so valuable: it helps you respond professionally and strategically, showing your employer that you understand your rights and are negotiating in good faith—not just pushing back randomly.

4. What If They Do Threaten to Revoke It?

Sometimes, employers use pressure tactics. You might hear:

“If you don’t sign by Friday, we’re withdrawing the offer.” “This is our best and final—we won’t be negotiating.” “If you come back with changes, we’ll rescind everything.”

This kind of language is often used to intimidate and discourage negotiation—but remember:

• They still owe you your statutory minimums

• They don’t want a legal battle

• Pulling a severance offer because you advocated for yourself could reflect poorly on them—and even backfire

If your employer genuinely threatens to revoke an offer for asking questions, it may be a red flag about the fairness of the package in the first place.

5. How to Protect Yourself

If you’re worried about losing your offer by negotiating, follow these steps to keep the conversation constructive and low-risk:

• Be professional and respectful Don’t make it personal—stick to the facts.

• Know what you’re entitled to Use Severease to compare your offer against what’s reasonable under Canadian employment law.

• Document everything Keep written records of emails, deadlines, and package terms.

• Use strategic language That’s why we provide you with custom response letters and guidance—to help you speak your employer’s language, not legalese.

6. Worst-Case Scenario? You Get Clarity

Most of the time, the “worst” that happens is your employer says:

“This is our final offer.”

Even if that’s the case, you’ll walk away knowing you explored every option—without missing out on something better. And remember: even experienced lawyers can’t guarantee a better result. The value lies in asking the right questions and making informed choices.

The Bottom Line

Trying to negotiate your severance won’t make it vanish.

• Your legal minimums are protected 

• Withdrawing an enhanced offer is rare 

• Negotiation is normal—and expected

And with Severease, you don’t have to do it alone. Our platform helps you analyze your offer, understand your rights, and craft a smart, respectful response that keeps the conversation productive.

Don’t sign away your rights without checking what you’re really owed.

At SeverEase, we give you the knowledge and tools to negotiate severance on your terms.

Think your offer is too low? Learn how to counter with confidence—start here.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.