Layoffs in Ohio

Notice rules

Under the federal WARN Act, employers with 100 or more employees generally must give 60 days’ written notice before a plant closing or mass layoff.

Ohio has its own rules (Ohio Revised Code § 4113.31 (in effect since September 30, 2025)):

• Ohio now requires, in state law, the same 60 days’ notice as the federal WARN Act, with the same thresholds (employers with 100 or more employees; layoffs of 50 or more at one site within 30 days).
• Notices to workers must explain the reason for the closing or layoff, say whether it is permanent or temporary, give the expected dates, and describe any bumping or recall rights.
• Workers without a union must also be told how to get unemployment benefits and other help, and who at the company can answer questions.
• The employer must also notify the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services and local elected officials, describing any steps taken to soften the impact.

Source: Section 4113.31 | Compliance with federal WARN Act, Ohio Laws (Legislative Service Commission) (Ohio Rev. Code § 4113.31). Checked October 11, 2026.

Where to get help

• File for unemployment in Ohio official state site
• Find an American Job Center near you job-search and training help (CareerOneStop, U.S. Department of Labor)
• Ohio’s Rapid Response team state help for workers after a layoff (U.S. Department of Labor directory)
• What to do in your first week