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Common issues
Written Reasons for Dismissal
Your right to receive a written statement explaining your dismissal.
Last updated 21 February 2026
Overview
Under section 92 of the Employment Rights Act 1996, employees with two years of continuous service are entitled to a written statement of the reasons for their dismissal.
If dismissed while pregnant or on maternity leave, you are entitled to this regardless of service length.
What you can do
- Request written reasons if they were not provided.
- The employer has 14 days to respond.
- A failure to provide reasons can result in an award of up to two weeks' pay.
Next steps
Keep your facts organised and protect your time limits with the tools below.
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