Laid off? Your first 7 days

Getting laid off is a shock. This is a short, practical checklist for the first week. It links to official sources instead of summarizing rules, because benefit rules vary by state and change over time. Always check the official page for your situation. This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice.

Day 1–2: File for unemployment benefits

The U.S. Department of Labor says to contact your state’s unemployment insurance program as soon as possible after becoming unemployed, and generally to file in the state where you worked. Each state runs its own program and sets its own eligibility rules. (DOL: How do I file for unemployment insurance?)

Find your state’s filing site and phone number with CareerOneStop’s Unemployment Benefits Finder.
Have your employment dates and employer addresses ready, since you’ll be asked for them.

Day 1–3: Collect your paperwork

Save copies of anything your employer gave you: the layoff or separation letter, any severance agreement, final pay stub and benefits information. Read severance terms carefully before signing, and consider getting advice if anything is unclear.

Day 2–5: Sort out health coverage

You may have more than one option. Compare them before deciding:

COBRA: may let you keep your employer’s group health plan for a limited time, usually at full cost. See the DOL’s COBRA page.
The Health Insurance Marketplace, Medicaid or CHIP: losing job-based coverage can make you eligible to enroll outside open enrollment, and savings are based on household income. See HealthCare.gov: coverage options if you’re unemployed and special enrollment periods. Note the deadlines on those pages.

Day 3–7: Get free local help

American Job Centers offer free job search help, training information and resume feedback, and many serve laid-off workers specifically. Find one near you with the American Job Center Finder. The Department of Labor’s toll-free line, 1-877-US2-JOBS (1-877-872-5627), also answers questions about job loss and benefits. (DOL)

Day 5–7: Restart your search, gently

Update your resume with your most recent role while it’s fresh.
Tell a few people you trust that you’re looking.
Set a sustainable routine. A job search is a marathon.

RizzWorks is free while you’re between jobs

If you’re unemployed, our Between Jobs program makes RizzWorks free until you land a stable job. Then pay what feels fair, including nothing.