ThuhGreatCommenter's journey

I am currently facing a layoff that is scheduled to take effect in over a month. As I navigate my job search, I'm unsure how to answer the question about my employment status on applications. I want to be honest, but I also don't want to jeopardize my chances of landing a new role. Right now, I am employed, so I feel inclined to answer 'YES' to the question of whether I am currently employed. However, I worry that if the hiring process takes a long time and my layoff date arrives, it could create confusion during the background check when they find out I'm no longer employed. I've read that employers typically don’t know about future layoffs unless disclosed, and that I shouldn't have to mention it. Many suggest I should stick with 'YES' until the layoff officially happens, as employment verification processes usually just check the dates of employment. I’ve also seen advice that if I get a new job and then get laid off shortly after, I can explain that it was a layoff that occurred after I accepted the new position. Ultimately, I think I will answer 'YES' on applications because, as of today, I am employed. I just need to keep in mind that I can clarify my situation if it comes up during interviews.

I was laid off recently and my last day will be in two months. I'm trying to figure out the best healthcare option for my family of four, which includes my wife and our two kids, one of whom is autistic and covered by state insurance. I reached out to the state, and they mentioned that my child's state insurance will likely become the primary coverage once my employer-provided insurance ends. Currently, I’m facing a tough decision regarding COBRA versus marketplace insurance. My employer's insurance is quite good, but I estimate that COBRA will cost us around $2200 per month, which includes both employer and employee contributions. I haven't yet checked the marketplace rates, but I suspect they might be cheaper. Given that my wife and I are in our early 40s, I feel we should have some form of insurance, but I'm torn about whether to go for a family plan or just cover ourselves since one child already has state coverage. The cost of insurance would take a significant chunk out of any severance I receive, potentially 25%, and could consume half of my unemployment benefits. I'm leaning towards sticking with COBRA for now, hoping to secure a new job soon, but I’m also considering how to stretch our finances if I don’t find work right away. I’m curious to hear how others in similar situations have navigated their healthcare options after layoffs.