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Lost Your Job? First 72 Hours
A calm, step-by-step plan for the first three days and first two weeks after a layoff.
Losing a job is a shock — financially and emotionally. It is not a verdict on your worth. The good news: a handful of quick moves in the first few days can protect your income, your health coverage and your credit while you figure out what’s next.
Work through the checklists below. Your progress saves in this browser, so you can come back to it.
The first 72 hours
The first two weeks
Health coverage after a layoff: your main options
| Option | Good for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Marketplace plan (HealthCare.gov or your state exchange) | Many people qualify for savings based on expected income for the year. | Enroll within your Special Enrollment Period, usually 60 days from losing coverage. |
| Medicaid | Households whose income has dropped a lot. You can apply any time of year. | Rules vary by state; apply through your state or HealthCare.gov. |
| COBRA | Keeping the exact same plan and doctors, especially mid-treatment. | You usually pay the full premium plus an admin fee, so it is often the most expensive option. |
| Spouse or partner’s plan | Losing coverage usually qualifies you to join a family member’s employer plan. | There is typically a short window (often 30 days) to request it. |
| Community health centers | Care on a sliding fee scale while you sort out coverage. | Not insurance — but can cover primary care, dental and more at low cost. |
Where to go
CareerOneStop GovFind your state unemployment office, job listings, training and local American Job Centers.careeronestop.org ↗U.S. Department of Labor GovYour rights on final pay, COBRA and unemployment insurance.dol.gov ↗HealthCare.gov GovCheck Marketplace plans and savings after losing job-based coverage.healthcare.gov ↗Medicaid.gov GovSee if your new income qualifies you for free or low-cost coverage.medicaid.gov ↗StudentAid.gov GovFederal student loan repayment plans, deferment and forbearance.studentaid.gov ↗USDA SNAP GovGrocery help while you look for work.fns.usda.gov ↗CFPB GovGuides for talking to lenders and dealing with debt collectors.consumerfinance.gov ↗JOBADU FreeOur sister site for jobs, careers, résumés and AI career tools.jobadu.com ↗
Job loss questions
Can I get unemployment if I was fired?
Often, yes — it depends on your state and the reason. Being let go for poor fit or performance is frequently treated differently than serious misconduct. Apply anyway and let the state decide.
Does severance affect unemployment?
In some states it can delay or reduce benefits; in others it doesn’t. Report it honestly on your claim and check your state’s rules.
Should I take COBRA or a Marketplace plan?
Compare both. COBRA keeps your exact plan but is usually pricier. A Marketplace plan with savings can cost much less, especially if your income for the year will be lower. Mind the enrollment deadlines.
What about gig or freelance work while unemployed?
Many states let you earn some income while collecting benefits, but you must report it. Check your state’s rules before you take work.
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