What is an employee at will? After five years, you may have some rights accruing that you aren't aware of. You might want to consult with the EEOC to find out if they can do what they did.

The fact that you say you wanted to leave the job on your terms may have played into it. For some companies, wanting to leave is a capital crime ... especially if you are putting out resumes without telling them or complaining to someone you thought a friend who is telling someone.

As for the rest of what you are saying, you seem to be more venting than asking anything from the group.

Vent away!

hi lauriejean7, i'm sure you feel devastated by this, but the good thing is that you have accounting skills that you can use in any industry. every company needs a good accountant.. your sons are older and (hopefully) not dependent on you.. maybe this is a blessing in disguise, there's a great opportunity awaits you--you go grlfren!

"Employment At will" means that you are employed unless or until you are terminated. No reason has to be given; conversely, the employee can leave at any time and no notice need be given.

You should check with the EEOC anyway, because federal law may apply. As a woman of 49, you are considered part of a "protected group", and there may be a way to pursue some recourse.

I recommend you read How to Land Your Dream Job (Fox) or Get Hired Now (Traditi) to develop a game plan and get some focus in your search

Hi Laurie, The same thing happened to me 4 years ago. I was in the accounting department of a company for over 6 years. They called me into the office and said I was being "laid off" and that they would call me back in a month or so. They never called. I was completely devestated! I hadn't realized how much my ego was wrapped up in my job. I know now that I should have done something then. You shouldn't wait like I did to check with the EEOC! I still have not found a permanent, full time job. Best of luck in your search. Rose