What is the difference between being laid off, made redundant and being dismissed?

Laid off and made redundant usually mean the role ended for business reasons, while dismissed (or fired) usually means the employer ended the job because of the person's conduct or performance.

In everyday use:

• Laid off is the common term in the US and parts of Asia. It can also mean a temporary stop in work, so check how your employer used it.
• Made redundant is the common UK, Irish, Australian and New Zealand term for a role that is no longer needed.
• Dismissed, terminated or fired usually points to the individual rather than the role.

For your resume, none of these words needs to appear. The job entry looks the same in every case: employer, title, dates and results. The difference matters when an application form or interviewer asks why you left. Use the term that matches your paperwork, such as your termination letter, so your answer is accurate and consistent.