Termination Prep and Day-Of Checklist

A one-page checklist for letting someone go without creating a bigger problem. Most terminations go wrong because of documentation, timing, or delivery, not the decision itself. This walks you through all three stages: before, during, and after the meeting.

It's written for Virginia employers who don't have an HR department. If the prep list turns up a red flag, like a recent complaint, a leave request, a claim, an accommodation request, or an employee who is 40 or older, stop and talk to an attorney before you go further.

Have the paper trail in front of you: reviews, warnings, signed policies, and attendance records. When you're done, you'll have your reason in writing, final pay and benefits information ready, and a list of what to follow through on once the meeting is over.