Job Loss? Here’s What You Do Now.

  • Financial Relief

Losing or having a change in employment can feel overwhelming when it happens. Your income affects everything you do, from paying rent to putting food on the table. And when you lose your income, it can feel as though you’re the only one going through it.

Desk with a laptop and mug

You're not alone.

But job loss is definitely not an isolated experience, especially now. Millions of people lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and we're still feeling those effects as our communities and economies recover.

When unemployment happens, there are steps you can take to minimize its impact on you and your family, your health, and your future.

Make contact.

Financial hardship is a reality for many people, especially during an historic pandemic. And cities, counties, utility companies, and debtors usually have programs or other ways to help.

If you lose your job, make contact with these offices and services to let them know:

  • The Unemployment Office: Your city, county, and state have resources specifically aimed at curbing unemployment and its effects. They have insurance and unemployment options, and can help you find out which programs and services you might qualify for.
  • Your financial institution: Call your credit union or bank and see if they have programs or loans to assist.
  • Your creditors: Contact the places you pay your debts, including your mortgage, loans, credit cards, student loans. Ask about options to help with hardship.
  • Call your utility companies: Check if they have grants or options for hardship situations.
  • Contact food resources: Get in touch with the folks at a city or county food bank or pantry for assistance. This is what they’re made for, to help people during their tough patches.
  • Reach out to family and friends: Get in touch with the people in your life who might be able to assist.
  • Religious organization: If you’re a member of a religious organization, reach out and check on their assistance options.

A+ Tip: At Affinity Plus, our staff is dedicated to helping people find solutions to their financial challenges of all sizes. If you’ve experienced job loss or other financial hardship, contact us and we can work on a plan specifically for you.

Take care.

It’s easy to lose sight of taking care of yourself (and your mental health) in the whirlwind immediately following unemployment, but you are your greatest asset. Financial hardship, while uncomfortable, is not uncommon, and you’re not alone in your struggles. Reach out.

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