Help for Laid-Off Workers

Working families are in trouble. As Labor, we know how to face challenges head-on. We have a tradition of helping each other through hard times. Below you will find links to union resources created to help workers, state resources to help workers, and information on help available through the federal stimulus plan.

Layoff check-list for workers

A list of the things workers should think about after receiving notice of a layoff, with links to helpful resources.

 

Learn about options for continuing healthcare when out of work

A description of existing healthcare programs offered by the state. Find out about the new Premium Reduction Program for COBRA in the federal stimulus plan.

 

Unemployment Insurance in California

Click the link above to more about UI and how to apply. Applying for unemplyment insurance (UI) is FREE through the State of CA. BEWARE of scams that charge money for applying for UI benefits.

Click here to read a fact sheet from the State of CA about UI, including info on who is eligible.

You may also be eligible for Trade Adjustment Funds (TAA) if your job loss was tied to increased competition from imports. In addition to extended UI benefits, TAA may provide for employment services and, if needed, classroom and/or on-the-job training, job search, and relocation allowances.

• Find out if you are eligible for TAA (Trade Adjustment Act) funds (pdf)

 

Find help with finances, avoiding foreclosure

 

Get help with employment services through the State Workforce Investment System

• Find a One-Stop Career Center in your area - (pdf) State of CA listing, by county

Help for Unions Facing Layoffs

Have you reecived a WARN Notice that workers in your union will be laid-off? In most cases of substantial layoff, federal and
California laws - the WARN acts - require that employers give advance notice to their employees that a major layoff is
imminent and that their jobs will be affected.

LEARN about the WARN laws

What To Do When the Layoff Notice Arrives

How Union Leaders Can Help Displaced Workers

Download The Layoff Aversion and Rapid Response Toolkit

For Union Leaders and WIB Representatives - a comprehensive set of resources and guidelines for facing layoffs

What is Layoff Aversion and Rapid Response?

It may be possible to mobilize public-private resources for
an economically viable alternative to downsizing or
closing a facility and dislocating workers en mass.

When layoffs cannot be averted, state Rapid Response Coordinators can work with you to determine what services the state provides for workers,and what sources of funding are available for workers in transition.

• Find a State Rapid Response Coordinator in your area (pdf)

• Get help from the Western Trade Assistance Adjustment Center (pdf)