With what’s going on in today’s economy, the thought of losing your job is a real possibility. Perhaps you’re already in that situation.
But don’t lose hope, there are things you can do and places you can go to help you through this tough time.
The first place you must go is to your unemployment agency. You may even be able to apply for benefits online.
Either way, contacting them is the first step you need to take. The unemployment agency provides financial benefits to those who qualify and they’ll help you find another job should you need it after this crisis is over.
Although they can make a significant difference in the short-term, unemployment benefits are usually much lower than your normal salary.
However, there are many other sources you can also take advantage of to help make up the difference during this rough financial time.
Because surviving job loss is doable. Believe me. Whe’ve been there several times and we got through it just like you will.
I’ll share with you what to do when you lost your job, because sometimes it helps when someone walks you through it. This time can be tough, but I promise you, it will get better.
And dealing with job loss may not be easy, but with some good ole’ fashioned determination, you’ll be able to keep on swimming!
Let’s look at some of your options:
1. Reduce Monthly Expenses
It’s kinda obvious that when you see that a financial negative is on the horizon and you need to “brace yourself” you’ll need to immediately look at what you’re already spending on. It’s the immediate place to get quick cash and the first thing on what to do when you lost your job.
Take a serious look at some of the things you can live without for a little while until you get back on your feet.
Log into your bank account or credit cards to see what you’ve been spending on recently so you can cut out the things that aren’t necessities.
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Some of the first places to look include:
- Cutting off cable
- Removing extra features on your cell phone plan
- Eating out (which right now is carry out)
- Air conditioning or and heating (turn that thermostat up a degree or two)
- Electric usage (turn off lights and computers when not in use now that you’re home more)
2. Save Money By Meal Planning
You can save over $100 (based on a family of 4 with bi-monthly pay periods) on each trip to the grocery store simply by planning meals ahead and shopping your grocery store’s weekly sales flyers. This is a must-do step to learn what to do when you lost your job.
Not only will you reduce how much you spend on food, but you’ll probably reduce some weight around your waistline as well. Who couldn’t use that added benefit?
Dealing with job loss isn’t easy, but you can learn to do without some of your favorite items to make the money stretch farther.
Take a look at these tips to start meal planning from what you already have in your pantry today.
3. Deliver Groceries
One of the fastest ways to earn some quick cash right now is to help deliver groceries to those who shouldn’t leave their homes.
My daughter’s fiance signed up with Instacart and in 12 hours he was able to go shopping. Plus, it’s super flexible because you choose who to shop for when you’re already at the store.
He made $100 TODAY (4/9/20) after shopping for 3 people, in about 4 hours.
To get started, download the app and use code KBLAND101D8.
If you can deliver, it’s what to do when you lost your job and something that can make a difference today.
4. Get Help From Community Agencies
If you’re in dire straits and need assistance right now, there are many local agencies you can turn to for aid.
Remember, surviving job loss is just that – about surviving. If you feel embarrased, know that most of us have been in this situation before. So there’s no need to feel that way. Take the help now, and then be determined to pay if forward later when you are back on your feet.
The United Way and Salvation Army are located in most areas and offer a variety of programs that may be able to help you.
5. Seek Help From Local Churches
My church (First Baptist Of Plant City) partnered with Feeding Tampa Bay to have a drive-through line where you could pick up boxes of food (and they had a prayer line too). If you’re dealing with job loss, get the help you need. It can be one of the stresses that can be relieved for you.
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Feel Less Stress While Paying Off Debt
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Download this FREE Guide to have more peace & less stress while getting out of debt.
Not in the Tampa FL area, go to the Feeding America website and enter your zip code to find a mobile food pantry near you.
6. Look For Help From Government Agencies
Besides the unemployment agency, most areas have a Department of Human Resources, Social Services, or Health Department that can help or guide you to assistance.
If you’re looking what to do when you lost your job, ask around. There are many people who know who to go to when times get tough.
7. Sell Items On eBay
Take a good look around your home, shed, or garage. How many boxes do you have lying around filled with stuff you never use?
You’ll be surprised at what people will pay for what you consider junk. And people ARE buying things right now.
The company where my husband works is having a boom of extra business so everyone who works there is getting paid overtime… they are in a different place financially and they are still able to purchase things.
I just don’t want you to assume that because you are facing a financial hardship that everyone else is. People are still out there spending money.
With some communication, research, and creativity, you can take advantage of your time off to learn a new skill or start a new venture with skills and passions you already have.
Have some fun utilizing your creative ability while making the extra money you need to make ends meet.
These tough financial times don’t have to be devastating. Use these tips to take advantage of the resources available to you to reduce the negative impact on your life. It’s what to do when you lost your job that makes the difference in your outlook and even your outcome.
Because surviving job loss is doable. We’ve been there several times and we got through it just like you will.
I’ll share with you what to do when you lost your job, because it can help when someone walks you through it. This time can be tough, but I promise you, it will get better.
And dealing with job loss may not be easy, but with some good ole’ fashioned determination, you’ll be able to keep on swimming!
You may even look back on this time as the lucky stroke that pushed you toward success in your new career.
Your Turn: What other advice would you tell someone what to do when you lost your job? Share with me below!
