What is the Severance Fund in Colombia?



Modified on: Mon, 5 Jan, 2026 at 5:25 PM

In Colombia, employee termination comes with specific protections and benefits designed to support workers during transitions. Key aspects include severance funds. 


Cesantías (Severance Fund):

  • Contribution: Employers are mandated to deposit 8.33% of an employee’s annual salary into a severance fund known as cesantías. This deposit must be made by February 14th of each year.
  • Access: Employees can access this fund for various purposes, including:
    • Unemployment: If the employee loses their job.
    • Home Purchase: To assist in buying a home.
    • Higher Education: To support educational expenses.

Was this article helpful?

That’s Great!

Thank you for your feedback

Sorry! We couldn't be helpful

Thank you for your feedback

Let us know how can we improve this article!

Select at least one of the reasons
CAPTCHA verification is required.

Feedback sent

We appreciate your effort and will try to fix the article