Before proceeding, please review the  legal disclaimer.

My Boss Fired Everyone—Now What? (2025 Texas Employment Guide)

Imagine walking into work one day only to be told, “You’re all fired.” No notice. No explanation. No backup plan.

Mass layoffs, sudden closures, or your boss just losing it—whatever the reason, it’s scary when an entire staff gets terminated at once. But before you panic, let’s break down your legal rights and next steps if your boss fired the whole team in Texas.

Is It Legal to Fire All Employees at Once in Texas?

Unfortunately, Texas is an at-will employment state. That means your boss can fire you for nearly any reason—or no reason at all—as long as it’s not illegal.

Firing everyone is legal unless it violates:

• Anti-discrimination laws (race, age, sex, disability, etc.)

• Retaliation laws (for reporting harassment or unsafe conditions)

• The WARN Act (more on that below)

If your employer targeted protected groups or retaliated against whistleblowers, that’s a different story—and you may have a strong case.

What Is the WARN Act?

The Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act is a federal law that requires large employers to give 60 days’ notice before mass layoffs or plant closures.

It applies if:

• The company has 100+ employees

• At least 50 employees are laid off at a single site

• The layoff is permanent or lasts over 6 months

If your employer violated WARN, you may be entitled to back pay, benefits, and damages.

Texas also has a Mini-WARN Act, but it mostly mirrors the federal law.

Can I Get Unemployment if I Was Part of a Mass Firing?

Yes.

In most cases, being part of a mass layoff makes you eligible for Texas unemployment benefits. Here’s how it works:

1. File a claim with the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC)

2. Report your earnings (or lack thereof)

3. Keep a record of job applications

If approved, you can receive temporary financial support while you search for a new job.

Tip:

If the company disputes your claim, having written communication (emails, layoff letters, etc.) can help your case.

What Are Your Rights as a Laid-Off Employee?

Depending on the situation, you may be entitled to:

• Severance pay (if your contract or company policy allows)

• Continued healthcare coverage under COBRA

• Final paycheck (due within 6 days in Texas)

• A written reason for the termination (upon request)

If your boss ghosted everyone and shut down operations, there may be grounds to sue for unpaid wages or WARN Act violations.

Real-Life Example: Laid Off Without Warning

“Nina” worked at a tech startup in Austin. One morning, the CEO gathered everyone on Zoom and said, “Effective immediately, all positions are eliminated.”

No notice. No severance. Just panic.

With help from an employment attorney, Nina and several coworkers filed a WARN Act claim. The company ultimately settled and paid back wages to all affected employees.

Can I Sue My Employer for Firing Everyone?

You might, if:

• The firing violated anti-discrimination or retaliation laws

• WARN Act notice was not provided

• You’re owed unpaid wages or benefits

A Texas employment lawyer can review your case and help you decide whether to pursue legal action individually or as a group.

Steps to Take After a Mass Firing

1. Request Documentation – Ask for your termination letter or explanation in writing.

2. File for Unemployment – Start your claim with the TWC right away.

3. Review Your Employment Agreement – Check for severance terms or dispute resolution clauses.

4. Talk to an Attorney – Especially if you suspect discrimination, retaliation, or illegal conduct.

5. Keep Records – Save all communications and documents from your employer.

How The Lange Firm Can Help

At The Lange Firm, we represent Texas workers who have been:

• Wrongfully terminated

• Laid off without proper notice

• Denied unemployment or severance

• Retaliated against after reporting violations

We’ll help you understand your rights, file claims, and if necessary—fight for your compensation in court.

Final Takeaway

Getting fired with your entire team feels overwhelming—but you don’t have to go through it alone.

If you think your employer broke the law or denied you what you’re owed, contact The Lange Firm today. Let us help you protect your rights and move forward with confidence.