Getting laid off is one of the worst things that can happen. You're not alone, and there is help out there. Take a look at the list of resources below, and read through the AFL-CIO's helpful guide "When the Paycheck Stops." (pdf)

 

1. If you are in a union, contact your union rep. Make sure you understand all the benefits your contract provides for you. Give your union a copy of the WARN fact sheet and a copy of our checklist What To Do When the Layoff Notice Arrives

 

2. If you work in a company in the private sector, contact a state Rapid Response Coordinator, or have your union rep do so.  Rapid Response Coordinators are state employees who come to the worksite (or the Union hall) to tell workers what services are available to them. For a list of regional Rapid Response Coordinators, click here.

 

3. Prepare to sign up for unemployment insurance (UI) as soon as your job ends. Applying for UI is FREE and easy. For info on eligibility for UI and instructions on how to apply, click here.

 

4. If you are in a union, have your union rep call an AFL-CIO Community Services representative. Your community services rep will have a comprehensive list of services available to you in your region, and can make presentations to your union. To find a list of Community Services reps in CA, click here.

 

5. Find out about continuing or finding health care while you are unemployed. For info on existing health care programs in CA and a new program available under the stimulus plan to help pay for COBRA, click here.

6. Get help with finances, find financial counseling, and plan ahead to avoid foreclosure, if you have a house. To find out more about financial resources available, click here.

 

7. Find social services providers in your area two ways:  

• Dial 2-1-1 Call 2-1-1 in participating areas to get referrals to local social services providers such as food pantries, employment services, affordable housing counseling, support groups and much more. 2-1-1 is an information clearinghouse number sponsored by the United Way.  2-1-1 isn’t everywhere.  To find out about your area:  http://www.211.org/

• Visit www.unemploymentlifeline.com to search for social service agencies by zip code and type, e.g. chilcare resources, and to learn about workers' rights.

 

8. Investigate resources for new or upgraded training while you are looking for a job.

 

9. See if your union has formed a hardship committee. Some unions set up hardship committees during layoffs just as during strikes to help workers access community and union resources to help them through hard times.  Ask your rep if your union has one.  Even if they do, they may only be able to offer a small amount of help due to the overwhelming need.

 

10. Start looking for a new job. Click here to find state resources available tp help you look for a new job.