Moneyzine
Contents
/Careers Guides/Termination for Cause

Termination for Cause

Moneyzine Editor
Author: 
Moneyzine Editor
1 mins
September 26th, 2023
Advertiser Disclosure

Definition

The term termination for cause refers to an employer severing its relationship with an employee for a specific reason. Termination for cause typically applies to executives that have an employment contract.

Explanation

The vast majority of employees working for a company are "employed at will," which allows both the employee and employer to terminate this relationship at any time and without explanation. That being said, an employer cannot terminate an at-will employee for an unlawful or discriminatory reason.

Executives and the owners of a business may have an employment contract, which normally contains language indicating they are not terminable at-will. Instead, the contract will state the employer can only terminate the executive "for cause." The contract will be very specific in outlining the "for cause" reasons, which may include:

  • Being convicted of a crime

  • Disclosing confidential company information or a trade secret

  • Failing a drug or alcohol test

  • Falsifying company records

  • Stealing, lying or embezzling money

  • Purposefully violating a company policy or procedure

  • Willful misconduct or insubordination

Note: Individuals that are terminated for cause may not be eligible to collect unemployment compensation and may not be entitled to severance pay. They may also be subject to non-compete agreements following their termination.

Related Terms

Related Content

  • Is It Worth Pursuing a Master's Degree?
    In an era where education is synonymous with opportunity, many consider pursuing a Master's degree a surefire way to advance their careers. However, is it really the golden ticket to success we've been led to believe?
    March 21st, 2024
  • The gender pay gap, the persistent disparity in average earnings between men and women throughout their careers, serves as a critical measure of wage inequality. This gap underscores the ongoing issue of income disparity, despite the ideal of equal pay for equal work.
    March 14th, 2024
  • 7 Essential Financial Moves After Losing Your Job
    Navigating the stormy seas of job loss? You're not alone.
    February 23rd, 2024
  • The Most In-Demand Skills to Get Hired in 2024
    Every job requires a combination of vital skills, but what skillset is valued most in 2024? As the job market evolves, staying ahead means it’s key to understand and acquire the skills that employers value most.
    April 12th, 2024
  • Key Productivity in the Workplace Statistics for 2024
    In 2023, global employee engagement saw a slight uptick, with 23% of employees engaged, up by two percentage points. However, a sizable 59% are categorized as disengaged, while actively disengaged employees, known as "loud quitting," declined to 18%. These figures highlight the persistent challenge for organizations to cultivate happiness and productivity in the workplace.
    January 31st, 2024

Contributors

Moneyzine 2024. All Rights Reserved.