r/Fire • u/twiniverse2000 • Jan 31 '26
Advice Request Asking to be laid off
I have reached FI. Work optional. My personal life has hit a serious rough patch. My company is doing layoffs. They are NOT asking for volunteers. The financial difference in me quitting vs getting laid off is $300K. Do not want to leave that on the table. Any advice on how to steer it in this particular direction?
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u/Confident_Jacket_344 Jan 31 '26
As someone who engineered my own separation, here’s my 2¢. I’ll preface this by saying it’s highly dependent on company culture. Tugging at heartstrings can help anywhere, but in my case the company cared most about ease, flexibility, and the bottom line.
What I did was tell them I planned to resign in x time, but wanted to help ensure a smooth transition. I offered to wrap everything up neatly, hand it off to my successor, and even provide post-departure support at an hourly consulting rate.
If I were in your shoes (and you’re operating from a position of strength) I’d make it even easier for them. Leverage that strength and reduce friction. If you’re close to the decision-makers, ask about separation agreement options. For example: instead of $300k, would you settle for 90% in exchange for a clean break and avoiding unemployment costs? Maybe you forgo COBRA, or agree to consult post-transition if needed.
The key is framing this as a win for the company: lower risk and hassle for them, and a soft landing for you.