My wife has a small beauty shop (only one person working). Last week she hired a girl to work with her (less than a week so far). She's not working out. When she was told she was being let go, she's insisting that she get two months severance pay or she will cause problems for us with the government labour office. I think it's spite and has no basis in law or regulations, however my wife is convinced that we have no choice.

Anyone know for sure? Pointers to english information.

PS. My thai isn't very good, so talking to the thai labour department is probably not worthwhile.

Thanks for any information.

Normally severance is due only after the employee has worked there for more than 120 days. Over 120 days but less than one year a month's salary is due as severance.

However, as the employer you are required to give notice on termination of at least one pay period. This can be up to one month, depending on how often salaries are paid, but it can also be one week if salaries are paid weekly for example.

The employee can work for you during this period.

[sunbelt][/sunbelt]