Navigating the Financial Fallout After a Layoff: Essential Steps to Take

---

5 financial moves that actually matter in the first 30 days. Coming from someone who's been there.

Being laid off is not a reflection of your worth. Sometimes life shifts the ground beneath you and suddenly you're standing in a season you didn't ask for. I know that feeling. I lived it - and what I learned on the other side is what I want to share with you.

What you do financially in the first 30 days after a layoff matters more than almost anything else. So here's what I did and what I hope helps you too.

STEP 1 - STOP THE BLEEDING FIRST

File for unemployment within 48 hours - even with a severance package. Know exactly how many months your savings can cover. Cut every non-essential subscription today. Clarity is your superpower right now. Panic is expensive.

STEP 2 - LEAVE YOUR RETIREMENT ACCOUNT ALONE

I know it's sitting there looking like a solution. It's not...at least not yet. Early withdrawals trigger a 10% penalty plus income taxes, and you lose years of compound growth you can never get back. That account is your future self talking. Listen to her.

STEP 3 - NEGOTIATE YOUR SEVERANCE

Most women sign whatever they're handed because they're in shock or just want the discomfort to be over. But you can ask for more weeks of pay, extended health insurance, and job placement support. They expect you to ask. Silence costs you money. Use your voice before you sign anything.

STEP 4 - MOVE YOUR SAVINGS TO A HIGH YIELD SAVINGS ACCOUNT (HYSA)

If your emergency fund is in a regular savings account, your bank is quietly earning money off of you while you're in survival mode. HYSAs are paying 4 - 5% right now on $10,000 - that's up to $500 a year just for moving it to the right place. Your money should be working while you're looking for work.

STEP 5 - REBUILD YOUR INCOME, NOT JUST YOUR RESUMÉ

For some, finding a new role takes up to 6 months. While you search, protect your cash flow. Freelance your skills. Consult in your industry. Teach what you know. Start small and tap into your network. A layoff is a pivot point, not a full stop. I know this step can be overwhelming without a step by step playbook, but lean-in to your village or network for guidance. Ask another person that's doing"it".

MOST IMPORTANTLY - TAKE CARE OF YOUR MENTAL & EMOTIONAL HEALTH

Financial stress after a layoff takes a real toll. Reach out to friends, family, or support groups. Keep a routine. Practice self-compassion. A layoff is not a personal failure - and your mental health is just as important as your financial health right now.

---

The strongest financial comebacks often start in the messiest seasons. I've seen it. I've lived it. You don't have to have it all figured out today but you do need these five steps.

If you need more support navigating your finances through this season, that's exactly what I'm here for. And if this spoke to you, share it with a woman in your circle who's holding it together quietly. She needs to know she's not alone.

"Ain't about how fast I get there, Ain't about what's waiting on the other side, It's the climb." -Miley Cyrus, "The Climb"