Severance Pay in Hawaii: Calculator & 2026 Guide
Calculate your estimated severance package in Hawaii. Hawaii state tax is 11.0%, for a combined 33.0% withholding rate.
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Estimate your severance package based on your salary, years of service, and industry
Hawaii Severance Pay Laws
Hawaii has up to 11% state income tax - one of the highest in the nation.
How Severance Is Taxed in Hawaii
| Tax Type | Rate | On $50,000 Severance |
|---|---|---|
| Federal (Supplemental) | 22.0% | $11,000 |
| Hawaii State Tax | 11.0% | $5,500 |
| Total Withholding | 33.0% | $16,500 |
| You Keep | 67.0% | $33,500 |
Hawaii Severance by Industry
Example: 5 years of service, $75,000 salary, individual contributor in Hawaii
| Industry | Weeks/Year | Gross Estimate | After Tax |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technology | 2-4 | $21,635 | $14,495 |
| Finance & Banking | 2-4 | $21,635 | $14,495 |
| Healthcare | 1-3 | $14,423 | $9,663 |
| Retail | 0.5-2 | $7,212 | $4,832 |
| Manufacturing | 1-3 | $14,423 | $9,663 |
| Consulting & Professional Services | 2-4 | $21,635 | $14,495 |
| Government | 1-2 | $7,212 | $4,832 |
| Nonprofit | 1-2 | $10,817 | $7,248 |
| Other Industry | 1-3 | $14,423 | $9,663 |
How to Negotiate Severance in Hawaii
In Hawaii, 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?
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Hawaii Severance Pay FAQ
Is severance pay required in Hawaii?▼
No, Hawaii 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 Hawaii?▼
Severance in Hawaii is taxed at 33.0% combined — 22% federal supplemental rate plus 11.0% Hawaii state income tax. On a $50,000 severance, you'd take home approximately $33,500.
What is the WARN Act in Hawaii?▼
The federal WARN Act applies in Hawaii, 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 Hawaii?▼
This depends on how your severance is structured. Some Hawaii 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 Hawaii's unemployment office for specific guidance.
Severance Pay in Nearby States
📋 Free Severance Negotiation Checklist
The exact steps employment lawyers use to negotiate higher severance. Used by 10,000+ employees.