Unemployment Situation Guides
Every major unemployment situation, explained clearly. Pick the one that matches where you are right now.
Just Got Laid Off? Here's What to Do in the First 48 Hours
The first 48 hours after a layoff determine how quickly benefits start. Here is the ordered checklist that prevents lost weeks and missed deadlines.
Read guide →Fired vs. Laid Off: Does It Matter for Unemployment Benefits?
Being fired does not automatically disqualify you from unemployment benefits. The separation reason determines eligibility, and the details matter more than the label.
Read guide →Severance Pay and Unemployment Benefits: How They Interact
Severance can delay or reduce unemployment payments depending on how your state treats it. Here is what to check before signing the agreement.
Read guide →Health Insurance After a Layoff: COBRA, ACA, and Your Options
You have 60 days from losing coverage to choose your next health insurance. This guide compares every option with costs, deadlines, and what to check first.
Read guide →The WARN Act: Your Right to 60 Days Notice Before a Mass Layoff
If your employer laid off 50+ workers without 60 days notice, the WARN Act may entitle you to significant back pay. Here is how to check and what to do.
Read guide →Partial Unemployment: Can You Collect Benefits If Your Hours Were Cut?
You do not have to lose your job entirely to collect unemployment. Most states pay partial benefits when hours or wages drop significantly. Here is how it works.
Read guide →How to Budget While on Unemployment: A Practical Financial Plan
UI benefits replace 40-50% of prior wages on average. Here is how to build a gap budget that covers essentials, uses the right resources, and protects your credit.
Read guide →Job Searching While on Unemployment: Rules, Requirements, and Strategy
Most states require 2-5 documented job search contacts per week as a condition of receiving benefits. Here is what counts, how to document it, and how to search effectively.
Read guide →How to Appeal a Denied Unemployment Claim
Most unemployment denials can be appealed. File immediately, gather documents, and understand what the hearing officer is actually evaluating. Many appeals succeed.
Read guide →What to Do With Your 401(k) After a Layoff
Your 401(k) options after a layoff are rollover, cash-out, or leave in place. Cash-out is usually the most expensive choice. Here is how to decide.
Read guide →How to Negotiate a Better Severance Package
Most severance offers are a starting point, not a final offer. Here is how to evaluate what you were given, what is negotiable, and how to ask effectively.
Read guide →Self-Employed and Gig Workers: Can You Get Unemployment?
Standard unemployment is built for W-2 employees, but 1099 workers with some W-2 history may qualify. Here is what applies to your situation.
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