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Your business is being sold? Your job usually transfers with it

When a business or part of a business changes owners, employees do not have to fear for their jobs: your employment relationship transfers automatically to the new owner, with your existing terms. A dismissal solely because of the transfer is impermissible.

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In a transfer of business, the acquirer steps into the existing employment relationships (§ 613a BGB), with all rights and obligations (salary, length of service, vacation entitlements). A dismissal because of the transfer of business is expressly invalid.
You are informed about the transfer and have a right to object (generally within one month of being informed). If you object, your employment relationship stays with the old employer, but that can be risky (e.g. if the part of the business there is discontinued).

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Check the information

    Were you fully informed in text form about the transfer and its consequences?

  2. 2

    2. Compare the terms

    Your existing employment terms continue to apply; check whether they are being observed.

  3. 3

    3. Weigh an objection

    Consider carefully whether an objection makes sense; get advice beforehand.

  4. 4

    4. Contest a dismissal

    A dismissal because of the transfer is invalid; mind the 3-week filing deadline.

Frequently asked questions

What happens to my job when the business is sold?

Your employment relationship transfers automatically to the new owner (§ 613a BGB), with all previous rights and obligations, including salary, length of service, and vacation entitlements. A dismissal solely because of the transfer of business is prohibited and invalid.

Can I object to the transfer?

Yes, generally within one month of being properly informed. If you object, your employment relationship stays with the previous employer. But that can be risky, for example if your job there is discontinued and a (business-related) dismissal then looms. Get advice before objecting.

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.