Should I file for unemployment right away?

In many U.S. states, yes — file promptly, even if severance is being paid, because benefit timing depends on how the state treats the severance.

What about my health insurance?

You typically become eligible for COBRA continuation, and you may qualify for a special enrollment period on the marketplace. Compare costs before choosing.

Guides

Laid off: the first 72 hours

In the first 72 hours after a layoff: secure personal files and contacts, read the separation agreement without signing it, file for unemployment in your state, review your health insurance options (COBRA and marketplace), and run your severance and runway numbers before responding to the offer.

Updated July 2026

Hour 0–2: Breathe, then secure what's yours

Before anything is disabled, download personal files, contacts, and any documents that belong to you (not the company). Save copies of your last several performance reviews and any relevant emails to a personal address. Save the separation packet. Note your last day, your final paycheck date, and how to reach HR going forward.

Hour 2–24: Do not sign anything yet

Read the separation agreement carefully. In many U.S. cases, you have 21 days to review it — 45 in group layoffs for workers 40 and over. Signing early does not usually get you paid earlier and it costs you leverage.

If the packet mentions non-compete, non-solicitation, non-disparagement, or a broad release of claims, these are exactly the clauses to review with an employment attorney before signing.

Hour 24–48: Money and coverage

File for unemployment in your state — waiting rarely helps and can delay benefits. Review your health insurance options: COBRA continuation from your employer, and the marketplace special enrollment period that a job loss triggers. Compare monthly premiums and out-of-pocket exposure. In many cases, the marketplace is cheaper, especially with subsidies.

Run the severance calculator so you know your runway before you decide how hard to negotiate.

Hour 48–72: The written response

Draft your counter-offer if you plan to send one. Include severance amount, PTO payout confirmation, healthcare bridge, and reference letter in one letter — first counters have the most room. The counter-offer letter builder assembles all of it.

Also: tell the people who should know

Not everyone. But your closest family, one or two friends, and — when you're ready — a few trusted professional contacts. Job searches move on relationships more than applications. Starting those conversations early makes the next month easier.

How to negotiate severance →Counter-offer letter builder →How severance pay works →

FAQ

In many U.S. cases, you have 21 days to review (45 in group layoffs for older workers). Take the time you're offered — you can rarely undo a signed release.

Glidepath provides general information and document tools, not legal, financial, or tax advice. Employment rules vary by state and country. For advice about your situation, consult a licensed professional.