Whether it was your fault or not, few things can throw you off balance professionally, financially and emotionally like getting fired. But it’s important to know that the loss of your job does not mean a loss of options. Fortunately, there are measures you can take after getting fired to protect your well-being, stay informed, and move on with as much security as possible.
Apply for unemployment compensation.
Unemployment benefits in the state of Florida are meant to help tide you over while you search for your next job. You must be actively searching for work and have earned a certain amount during your previous employment period to qualify. The maximum benefit is $275 per week. For more information, visit the state benefits portal here.
Sign up for healthcare coverage to account for upcoming medical costs.
If your employer provided group healthcare and had at least 20 full-time employees, you ought to receive a COBRA notice in the mail. COBRA is a health insurance coverage program that could allow you to maintain your employer-provided benefits. One key exception to COBRA eligibility is if you were fired for gross misconduct. Although you will very likely pay more for the same coverage you had when you were employed, COBRA offers rates that are often substantially lower than individual health insurance plans you’d find on the market. You should especially consider this option if continuity of benefits is important to your current health and that of your dependents. For more information about COBRA, go here. To determine if there are cheaper options than continuing your existing coverage with COBRA, take the quiz at healthcare.gov.
If your spouse also has employer-provided healthcare, you may want to price this option as well.
Explore additional options you may not know even exist.
Another helpful online quiz is benefits.gov. Lengthy, but you may realize you have a lot more options than you thought.
Check out whether a local career center provides free resume help.
While seeking out your next job, consider getting some assistance to make your resume as effective as possible. The first thing prospective employers see should be as clear, polished and succinct as possible — there’s always room to improve in this area. For those in the Tampa Bay area, CareerSource is a great option.
Keep in touch.
Plan a cheap or free meet-up with your favorite co-workers. Add them on LinkedIn and connect with their contacts. Ask your co-workers to write you a generic letter of recommendation that you can enclose with a cover letter and resume when you apply for jobs.
Stay optimistic.
This is not the end of your career. As shattering as getting fired can be, it’s also an opportunity for a new and better start. Whatever the circumstances of your job loss, take this time to reflect on your work history and evaluate career goals. We have seen countless employee clients get back in the game after losing their jobs — we have faith you will do the same.
If you feel you have been wrongfully terminated or need legal advice after departing from your employer, you may wan to consider seeking the advice of an experienced employment lawyer. Contact Fernee Kelly Law today.
– CJR for the firm.