---
title: What steps do I need to take in Ohio to terminate an employee for performance issues?
description: Looking to terminate an Ohio employee for performance issues? Check out Legal Faqs for step-by-step guidance on the proper process. Protect your business and ensure a fair and legal termination.
image: https://www.legalfaq.ai/hubfs/LegalFAQ/ohio-legal-faqs.jpg
---

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 March 26, 2023

# What steps do I need to take in Ohio to terminate an employee for performance issues?

![Picture of Chris Battis](https://www.legalfaq.ai/hs-fs/hubfs/battis-mug.jpg?width=50&name=battis-mug.jpg) By  [Chris Battis](https://www.legalfaq.ai/faqs/author/chris-battis)  ·   1 minute read

To terminate an employee for performance issues in Ohio, an employer must follow the proper procedures outlined in Ohio law. The first step is to document the performance issues in writing, and provide the employee with an opportunity to improve. This can be done through a performance improvement plan (PIP) that outlines specific goals and deadlines for improvement.

If the employee's performance does not improve after the PIP, the employer can then proceed with termination. The termination should be done in accordance with the terms of the employment contract, if applicable. If there is no employment contract, the termination should be done in accordance with Ohio's employment-at-will doctrine.

Under Ohio law, employers cannot terminate an employee for discriminatory reasons or in retaliation for exercising their legal rights. If an employee claims they were terminated for discriminatory or retaliatory reasons, the burden of proof rests with the employer to show that the termination was based on legitimate job-related reasons.

It is also important to consider any potential unemployment benefits that the employee may be entitled to. If the termination is not done in accordance with state law, the employee may be eligible for unemployment benefits, which can increase the cost to the employer.

In summary, to terminate an employee for performance issues in Ohio, an employer should document the performance issues, provide the employee with an opportunity to improve through a PIP, and follow all applicable laws and regulations. It is also important to consider any potential legal or financial ramifications and seek the advice of a qualified employment law attorney if necessary.

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