How much duration an employee usually spends on the bench/ or the longest duration for which EY allows you to stay on the bench before letting you go? Does it fire?
EY doesn't really have a bench as far as I know, but it might vary for different groups and countries. You should be able to find a job in another group (tax, assurance, advisory.....)
My understanding is that you would be proposed on an engagement at some point after around 6 or so weeks. I do not think they can fire you unless you continue to decline engagement that an EM is staffing you on. You have less leeway understandably as a Staff-1 vs a Senior-2
You should work on getting some certs to be more marketable meanwhile you're on the bench. Also try practicing interview questions either with yourself in front of a mirror, or with someone you trust
Man I remember when EY had the consulting side before going to Cap Gemini a colleague was on the beach for over 1 year. As long as your checking in, keeping CPE eligibility in check. Fast forward 19 years later a lot more checks and balances in place.
Probably 2 months