Payroll Client AccessWhen can I Terminate an Employee in Wisconsin? Employee Termination Rules & Compliance
BenHR > Employee Termination
Wisconsin follows at-will employment law, meaning an employer can terminate an employee at any time, with or without notice, as long as the reason is lawful. Unlawful terminations include those based on protected characteristics such as age, race, sex, religion, sexual orientation, retaliation for opposing discrimination or whistleblowing.
Exceptions to at-will employment include violations of public policy (such as firing an employee for refusing to commit an illegal act), breach of specific promises in contracts or handbooks and failure to follow established disciplinary procedures.
BenHR helps Wisconsin employers handle terminations properly to reduce risk and maintain compliance.
BenHR Services & Resources
Minimize Risk in Employee Terminations
Even with at-will employment, terminating an employee requires careful planning, documentation and adherence to established procedures. BenHR’s HR consultants guide employers through lawful terminations, helping create clear policies, maintain accurate records and confidently manage sensitive situations.
Wisconsin’s Trusted HR Experts Since 1974
BenHR, a division of The Benefit Companies, Inc., partners with Wisconsin businesses to manage complex HR challenges, including terminations. We provide practical solutions to protect both employer and employee interests, strengthen workplace culture and reduce legal exposure.