Single Female Terminated from Job

Jan. 14, 2015

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Dear Cathy:

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I am a single female and don’t have any family living around me.  I was fired from my job after 10 years a few days ago.  I have a small savings set aside that could hold me for 90 days or more but I am not sure about the options I have at this time.  Please advise me!  Terminated Employee, Ohio

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Dear Terminated Employee:

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First things first - one of the first things you need to do if you are laid off or fired from your job is to file your claim for unemployment benefits.  Do not procrastinate!  File a claim for unemployment benefits at your local state unemployment office (http://www.DOL.gov) on the FIRST business day after you lose your job.  

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Many states are now set up for you to do this online but many fired employees still rather handle this in person so they will go into the unemployment office.  It should take at least 30 days to get approved for these benefits.  If approved you will receive a weekly paycheck for at least 20 to 26 weeks (depends on your city).  You might have to downsize your standards of living but these funds should help you pay some of your bills.  

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If you are denied unemployment benefits, use your last paycheck to hire a labor attorney.  Get referrals for attorneys from others because some of them may cheat you, particularly in light of your vulnerable position.  If you feel you were wrongfully terminated, then the only other choice you have is to hire a labor or employment attorney and file a lawsuit for wrongful termination, while you get another job or start your own business. 

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If you were fired for filing a workplace discrimination complaint (EEOC.gov), make sure you state that when you file for unemployment benefits.  Now is the time to realistically look at your finances.  You are lucky to have at least 3 months of savings because most people only have 2 weeks to 30 days of funds set aside for a rainy day.  

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You need to decide if the unemployment benefits can help you keep your head above water or do you need to relocate closer to relatives until you are able to regroup and get your life back on track?  Only you can make that decision!  To put more funds in your pocket and look at your other options read the book "Recession Survival Guide: How To Get Back Into the Driver's Seat."

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