I submitted notice, my manager accepted my resignation said today is my last day, 6 hours later changed their mind…

Question

During our conversation my manager said it is in the best interest of the business for today to be my last day however I’m still eligible for rehire because I attempted to give notice. They then directed me to clock out and await further instructions regarding my separation. About six hours later, they called back and said after speaking with upper management they are required to pay me for the remainder of my two weeks thus they’ve changed their mind and now require me to work. I stated after my employment was terminated, I’ve now made other arrangements that render me unable to work the two weeks. They admitted in writing they mistakenly terminated me but since she didn’t put anything in the system I’m still an employee. Would this not constitute basic contract law and oral contracts stand I made an offer to resign from employment in two weeks, employer accepted my offer on the contingency that my last day is today, and took actions to this effect. Can my employer compel me to work?

Rhiannon Herbert · Answer

Assuming you're not subject to an employment contract with a separation term that says otherwise, you can quit at any time and for any reason, with or without notice. You cannot be compelled to work during the next two weeks - however, your employer is only obligated to pay you for the time you work, so if you do not work during your notice period, your employer does not have to pay you.

Q: I submitted notice, my manager accepted my resignation said today is my last day, 6 hours later changed their mind…