Severance Pay in District of Columbia: Calculator & 2026 Guide
Calculate your estimated severance package in District of Columbia. District of Columbia state tax is 10.8%, for a combined 32.8% withholding rate.
Free Severance Pay Calculator
Estimate your severance package based on your salary, years of service, and industry
District of Columbia Severance Pay Laws
Federal WARN Act requires 60 days notice for layoffs of 50+ employees at companies with 100+ employees.
How Severance Is Taxed in District of Columbia
| Tax Type | Rate | On $50,000 Severance |
|---|---|---|
| Federal (Supplemental) | 22.0% | $11,000 |
| District of Columbia State Tax | 10.8% | $5,375 |
| Total Withholding | 32.8% | $16,375 |
| You Keep | 67.3% | $33,625 |
District of Columbia Severance by Industry
Example: 5 years of service, $75,000 salary, individual contributor in District of Columbia
| Industry | Weeks/Year | Gross Estimate | After Tax |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technology | 2-4 | $21,635 | $14,549 |
| Finance & Banking | 2-4 | $21,635 | $14,549 |
| Healthcare | 1-3 | $14,423 | $9,700 |
| Retail | 0.5-2 | $7,212 | $4,850 |
| Manufacturing | 1-3 | $14,423 | $9,700 |
| Consulting & Professional Services | 2-4 | $21,635 | $14,549 |
| Government | 1-2 | $7,212 | $4,850 |
| Nonprofit | 1-2 | $10,817 | $7,275 |
| Other Industry | 1-3 | $14,423 | $9,700 |
How to Negotiate Severance in District of Columbia
In District of Columbia, the standard federal WARN Act applies — 60 days notice for layoffs of 50+ employees at companies with 100+ workers.
- ✓ Ask for more weeks: Counter with 50% more than the initial offer
- ✓ Negotiate COBRA: Employer-paid health coverage for 6-12 months
- ✓ Get a written reference: Protect your future career prospects
- ✓ Review non-compete clauses: Negotiate restrictions before signing
- ✓ Consult a lawyer: Employment attorneys often negotiate 2-5x the original offer
Think Your Severance Is Too Low?
Employment lawyers have helped workers negotiate 2-5x their original offers. Get a free consultation.
District of Columbia Severance Pay FAQ
Is severance pay required in District of Columbia?▼
No, District of Columbia does not have a state law requiring employers to provide severance pay. However, the federal WARN Act may require 60 days notice or pay in lieu of notice for large layoffs.
How is severance taxed in District of Columbia?▼
Severance in District of Columbia is taxed at 32.8% combined — 22% federal supplemental rate plus 10.8% District of Columbia state income tax. On a $50,000 severance, you'd take home approximately $33,625.
What is the WARN Act in District of Columbia?▼
The federal WARN Act applies in District of Columbia, requiring employers with 100+ employees to give 60 days advance notice for mass layoffs of 50+ workers. Failure to provide proper notice can result in back pay for the notice period.
Can I collect unemployment and severance in District of Columbia?▼
This depends on how your severance is structured. Some District of Columbia workers can receive both simultaneously, while others may see a delay in unemployment benefits. If severance is paid as a lump sum, it's less likely to delay unemployment than if paid as continued salary. Contact District of Columbia's unemployment office for specific guidance.
Major Employers in District of Columbia
Severance Pay in Nearby States
📋 Free Severance Negotiation Checklist
The exact steps employment lawyers use to negotiate higher severance. Used by 10,000+ employees.