What to do after a layoff

Step 1: File for unemployment benefits — this week

If you lost your job or your hours were cut through no fault of your own, you may qualify for unemployment benefits. Every state runs its own program, and most let you apply online or by phone.

• Apply as soon as you can — benefits usually start from when you file, not when you lost the job.
• Have handy: your Social Security number, your last employer's name and address, and your dates of work.
• If you're denied, you usually have the right to appeal. Don't give up after one no.

Find your state's program through the official federal directory: USA.gov — Unemployment benefits

Step 2: Sort out health coverage

Losing job-based insurance counts as a "qualifying life event," which means you can shop for a new plan right away — you don't have to wait for open enrollment.

• Check the federal marketplace — with a lower income you may qualify for big discounts or free coverage through Medicaid.
• COBRA lets you keep your old work plan, but it's usually expensive. Compare before you choose it.
• You typically have 60 days from losing coverage to enroll — but sooner is safer.

Start at the official marketplace: HealthCare.gov

Step 3: Steady your money for 60 days

You don't need a perfect budget. You need a simple plan that gets you through the next two months.

• Write down the must-pays: rent, utilities, food, transportation, medicine. Everything else waits.
• Call your landlord, utility companies, and lenders before you miss a payment — many have hardship programs, but only if you ask.
• Pause subscriptions and automatic payments you don't truly need right now.
• If food is tight, look into SNAP and local food banks. That's what they're for, and using them is smart, not shameful.

Step 4: Your first week of job searching

Don't apply to a hundred jobs on day one. Do these instead:

• Tell people you trust that you're looking. Most jobs still come through people, not postings.
• Update (or start) a one-page resume. Plain and honest beats fancy.
• Make a short list of the kinds of work you want and can do — it makes every next step easier.
• Explore careers, training, and local job centers at CareerOneStop.org — the U.S. Department of Labor's free career site.