Is It Lawful To Be Sacked By Text Message?

Being sacked by text message can feel shocking, humiliating, and unfair. Especially if it happens without warning or explanation. You might even question whether dismissal by SMS is lawful.

The short answer is: sometimes it is lawful, but often it’s a sign that the dismissal may be unfair.

Employment Law Partner Natalie Abbott explains the legal position on dismissal by text, and your potential options if you’ve been sacked by SMS.

Can an employer legally dismiss someone by text?

There’s no specific law in the UK that outright bans an employer from dismissing an employee by text message. However, the way a dismissal is handled is crucial. Even where an employer believes they have a valid reason to dismiss someone, they must still act reasonably and fairly throughout the process.