What to do if you are facing redundancy

By Editorial team · Updated 18 September 2026 · Applies to England

In short

If you are facing job loss, you can find redundancy help by understanding your rights and checking what support is available. You can contact government agencies like the Department for Work and Pensions for guidance. Read on to learn what steps to take next.

Check your rights and get redundancy help if you are made redundant

This applies to England. When you face job loss, checking your rights is a vital first step. You should gather official documents that show your personal details and work history. For example, your employer or government agencies like the Department for Work and Pensions may need to see documents that prove your identity and National Insurance number. Make sure you keep all letters, emails, and paperwork safe. You can check GOV.UK for official guidance on what your employer must do by law during this time. Knowing where you stand helps you protect your position and ensures you are treated fairly.

What notice period you should get

Your employer must give you a proper warning period before your job officially ends. The amount of time you get depends on how long you have worked continuously for the company. You should check your employment contract to review what was agreed when you first started your role. If you are unsure about the statutory rules, you can look for guidance on GOV.UK. During your notice period, you should still receive your normal wages and benefits. Use this time wisely to plan your next steps, update your CV, and look at potential financial support options. Keeping calm helps you manage this transition smoothly. Remember that your employer must follow proper legal procedures before your final departure date arrives.

How redundancy pay is calculated

Working out your financial payout can seem tricky. The money you receive depends on several factors, such as your age, your weekly earnings, and how many years you worked for the organisation. Because these figures change based on your unique personal situation, you should check the official redundancy calculator on GOV.UK to find out the exact amount you might get. Do not rely on guesswork or estimates from others. Your employer should provide a clear written breakdown of how they calculated your final lump sum. If anything looks unclear or confusing, ask them to explain the calculation in writing so you can verify it.

What benefits you can claim after redundancy

After losing your job, you might be able to get financial help from the government to tide you over. There are different types of support you can apply for depending on your household income, savings, and employment history.

  • Explore options like help if you are out of work through the Department for Work and Pensions.
  • Check if you qualify for support with your housing costs.
  • Look into council tax reductions via your local council.
  • Visit GOV.UK to see which schemes fit your personal circumstances and find out how to make a claim without delay.

How to find a new job

  1. Update your CV with your latest duties, skills, and achievements.
  2. Search online job boards, recruitment agencies, and local listings for open positions that match your experience.
  3. Reach out to previous employers, colleagues, or professional contacts to let them know you are available for work.
  4. Prepare thoroughly for interviews by practicing common questions and researching potential employers.

Common questions

Can I look for a new job while working my notice period?
Yes, you can search for new roles and attend interviews during your notice period. Check your contract for any specific rules about taking time off for job hunting.
Do I have to pay tax on my redundancy payout?
Tax rules depend on the total amount of your payout and other earnings. You can check GOV.UK or speak to HM Revenue and Customs for details on tax thresholds.
What should I do if I disagree with my redundancy calculation?
Ask your employer for a written explanation of how they worked out your payment. If you cannot resolve the issue, you can seek advice from official bodies or guidance online.
Who wrote this
Our editorial team, with AI assistance, from the official pages listed on this page. It was checked automatically for unsupported figures and copied text, but it has not yet been read by a person. If something looks wrong, please tell us.
Not advice
This is general information for England. What you can get depends on your circumstances — check with the organisation that runs the scheme before you act.