Layoff Checklist

You have time to review. Never sign under pressure.

Request written confirmation of severance terms, last day, and any agreements.

Copy coworker emails, client contacts, and vendor information to personal storage.

Save performance reviews, project metrics, and examples of your work.

Ask HR exactly when your health insurance ends.

Request details on severance amount, payment schedule, and conditions.

Know how long you have to review and sign any agreements.

This is a shock. Take the evening to decompress before making decisions.

Do this immediately. There's often a waiting period before benefits start.

Look for non-compete, non-disparagement, and release clauses.

Many offer free consultations. Especially important for larger severance packages.

Calculate how long your savings + severance + unemployment will last.

Identify essential vs non-essential expenses you can cut.

Compare COBRA costs vs ACA marketplace plans.

Leave it, roll to new employer, roll to IRA, or cash out (avoid if possible).

Confirm payment for unused PTO, commissions, and expense reimbursements.

Ask for more time, extended healthcare, or better terms.

If 50+ employees were laid off, you may be owed 60 days notice or pay.

Add recent accomplishments and quantifiable achievements.

Refresh headline, summary, and turn on "Open to Work" for recruiters.

Ask former managers and colleagues if they're willing to be references.

Let people know you're looking. Most jobs come through connections.

Create alerts on LinkedIn, Indeed, and industry-specific job boards.

Identify companies you'd like to work for and research them.

Practice a brief, professional explanation for why you're job searching.

Structure helps. Include exercise, job searching, and personal time.

Don't miss certifications or you won't get paid.

Keep records of where you've applied for unemployment requirements.

Send thank you notes after interviews and follow up on pending applications.

Take online courses or get certifications to stay competitive.

Job loss is stressful. Seek support from friends, family, or professionals.

Track spending and adjust as needed based on job search timeline.