Getting temporarily laid off

Myth or fact?

All employers have the right to temporarily lay off workers when times are tough.
  • Myth
  • Fact

Your employer is struggling and doesn’t have enough work for you right now. They’re sorry but they have to lay you off — or at least ask you to work fewer hours. Just till things pick up. You don’t doubt their sincerity. But neither do you necessarily have to accept this deal. Learn your rights if you're temporarily laid off.

What you should know

Work out the problem

Common questions

Who can help

  • This information applies to British Columbia, Canada
  • Reviewed for legal accuracy in March 2020
  • Time to read: 5 minutes

Reviewed for legal accuracy by

Trevor Thomas, Ascent Employment Law

Trevor Thomas

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