You want to give at least a two weeks' notice. A two week notice is effectively a resignation, and employers can choose to not let you work out the notice.It's more of a courtesy than anything. Can an employer terminate me without advance notice or without giving a reason or an unfair reason for the termination? Atwill employees can quit at any time with no notice. However, it is customary to give two weeks notice (or even more if you hold a high level position). Accepting a resignation early without paying the employee for the notice period can have consequences, if the employee gave more than two weeks' notice. Enter the resignation and effective date on appropriate employment records. Assuming there is no contract or agreement to the contrary, you're not required to keep an employee on during their resignation notice period. This guide is designed to provide employers in Illinois with up-to-date information on how to legally and respectfully terminate an employee.