Is quitting better than being fired?

Question

Zippia Team · Accepted Answer

Yes, in most cases it is better to quit than be fired. Quitting maintains your reputation, gives you control over the timing and terms of your departure, and helps foster a healthier relationship with your former employer.

Being fired is almost entirely a negative, as you likely won't be eligible for unemployment benefits and won't have as strong of a reference from that employer. Also, when you're fired, you don't have any control over timing, so you can't plan your savings or budgeting around this major life change.

On the other hand, being laid off does usually comes with a severance package, a generous continuation of benefits, and long-term unemployment eligibility. If you hear the news that layoffs are likely coming for your department, it may be financially wiser to remain in your position and allow yourself to be laid off rather than quit.