Personal timeline

iidakun's journey

Milestones, reflections, and progress updates connected as your layoff-to-next-step story unfolds.

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    Last week, I received a meeting invite titled "Business Updates," and it turned out to be a layoff announcement. The meeting was conducted via Zoom seminar, so I couldn't see how many others were affected. It was a surreal experience, especially after dedicating 15 years to the company. I feel conflicted because, while they handled the situation professionally, the abrupt end to my daily routine and responsibilities has been jarring. I no longer have a team to support or clients to engage with, and I genuinely hope my former colleagues are coping well. Thankfully, a few reached out to me afterward. In just over an hour, my career at the company came to an end. I stayed for so long because they provided stability and good benefits. Now, I'm seeking advice on what to do next, as this is my first experience with being laid off and unemployed. I'm officially employed until December 1st, receiving severance for six months after that. My health insurance will continue through the end of the year, and I have access to career counseling to help with my transition. I'm uncertain about when to apply for unemployment. Should I wait until my official termination date, or can I file now? The company has stated they won't dispute unemployment claims, but I'm worried it might affect my severance. I want to make the best decision possible, so I'm looking for guidance on whether I can receive both unemployment benefits and severance pay.

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  2. 1

    Last week, I received a Zoom meeting invite titled "Business Updates" and, as expected, it was the announcement of my layoff. I’ve been with the company for 15 years, and while they handled the situation professionally, it felt surreal to go from a structured routine to suddenly having nothing to do. I’m no longer supporting my team or working with clients, and it’s a jarring transition. Thankfully, a few colleagues reached out to me afterward, which was comforting. I stayed with the company for so long because they provided stability, a steady income, and full medical benefits. Now, in less than 75 minutes, my entire career there has ended. I’m officially laid off on December 1, but I’m still receiving pay until then, along with six months of severance afterward. My insurance will be covered until the end of the year, and I can continue it through COBRA at the same cost for another seven months. The company is also offering a month of career counseling to help with my transition. Since this is my first time being laid off and unemployed, I’m unsure about the next steps. Should I apply for unemployment now, or wait until my official termination date? The transition FAQs mention that the company won’t dispute unemployment claims, but it might affect my severance pay. I’m considering whether it’s possible to receive both unemployment and severance simultaneously. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

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