Microsoft voluntary retirement scheme: What happens if employees say no to the exit offer?

Microsoft has announced a voluntary exit programme allowing approximately 60,000 employees to leave the company with support. The offer includes severance benefits based on length of service and internal level. Employees have until the first week of December 2026 to accept the programme. Microsoft clarified that this initiative does not replace potential layoffs in the future. The company aims to adjust its workforce as business conditions evolve.