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Termination

"You're fired." — via WhatsApp

The termination arrives as a message, an email or only verbally.

§ 22 Abs. 3 BBiG / § 126 BGB

The boss may NOT do that
Invalid — a termination must be on paper and signed.
Terminating a training relationship must be done in writing, and electronic form is expressly excluded (§ 22 (3) BBiG). A termination by WhatsApp, text, email, a photo of a letter or verbally is therefore invalid — your training relationship continues, and so does your right to pay. In writing means: a paper with a handwritten signature (§ 126 BGB). After probation the notice must also state the reasons. For minors it must reach the parents. Important: keep turning up for training or offering your work, otherwise there may be a dispute about pay.

What the law says

§ 22 (3) BBiG – Form
Termination must be in writing; electronic form is excluded.
§ 126 (1) BGB – Written form
Where written form is required by law, the document must be signed by the issuer by hand with their name.

What you can do

  1. Take a screenshot of the message, but do not reply with "okay".
  2. Keep offering your work in writing — you are still a trainee.
  3. If a written termination follows: watch the deadline for a lawsuit or the arbitration committee.
  4. Get advice immediately: IHK/HWK, union or a specialist lawyer.
Email template for your trainer

More cases: Termination