Notice Period Calculator
Calculate the statutory minimum notice period under Irish law
Statutory minimum notice periods in Ireland are governed by the Minimum Notice and Terms of Employment Acts 1973-2005. The notice required depends on the employee's length of continuous service and whether it is the employer or employee giving notice. Many employers and employees are unaware that contractual notice periods (in the employment contract) can be longer than the statutory minimum, and the longer period always applies.
Getting notice periods wrong can lead to WRC complaints, claims for payment in lieu of notice, and unfair dismissal proceedings. This calculator shows the statutory minimum - always check your employment contract for any additional obligations.
Notice Period Rules in Ireland
The Minimum Notice and Terms of Employment Acts 1973-2005 set the statutory minimum notice periods. However, your employment contract can specify a longer period. If the contract says 3 months but the statutory minimum is 2 weeks, the 3-month contractual period applies. The statutory minimum is the floor, not the ceiling.
Payment in lieu of notice is common but not automatic. Unless the employment contract allows it, both parties must agree. During the notice period, the employee remains entitled to full pay, benefits, and accrual of annual leave. An employer cannot reduce pay during the notice period. Failure to give correct statutory notice can result in a WRC claim for the pay the employee would have received.