Blog Archives
How Will I Financially Survive Unemployment?
In our little corner of the outplacement world we are seeing many of the people we work with having financial issues similar to those during the Tech Bubble burst in the early 2000′s, and 2008 recession. The loss of a job can drain you both emotionally and financially. One of the components of our process that we’ve continued to incorporate is Transitional Financial Planning and it seems to help folks. Below you’ll find some of the resources (minus the consultant and materials) to help you manage debt, avoid foreclosure, cut expenses, avoid scams, and more.
Credit and Debt Help.
Paying off or keeping up with large amounts of debt can be difficult when you are unemployed. Learn more about your rights and what to do if you are over your head in debt.
| Find A Local Credit CounselorThere are credit counselors near you. Search for a local credit counselor.How to Deal With Creditors
Dealing with creditors can be difficult and stressful, especially after the loss of a job. Reputable credit counselors can advise you on managing debt and help you budget. |
Debt ConsolidationAdvantages and disadvantages of debt consolidation.What To Do If You’re Knee Deep in Debt
If you are overwhelmed by debt, learn about some of the options available to you. Credit cannot be repaired overnight. Learn how to help yourself and how to spot scams. |
Avoiding Fraud and Scams.
Fraudsters specifically target the unemployed. Avoid becoming a victim of a scam or fraud by learning about the latest scams.
| Financial Fraud Alerts Local financial fraud alerts from the Department of Financial Institutions.Consumer Alerts
Local consumer alerts from the Washington Office of the Attorney General. |
Alerts from BBBAlerts from the local Better Business Bureau. |
Avoiding Foreclosure.
Foreclosure is a stressful situation for those who must go through it. If you are having trouble making your monthly mortgage payment, seek help right away.
| Foreclosure & Homeownership CounselingCounseling is available if you are having trouble making payments.Information about Foreclosure
Information about foreclosure and possible alternatives. |
Beware of Foreclosure Rescue ScamsInformation about foreclosure rescue scams and what to look for.Loan Modification Services – Caution
Be cautious of someone offering to help modify the terms of your home loan. |
Cutting Expenses.
One of the first things you need to do when you lose a job is cut spending. Find creative ways to cut costs on utilities, groceries, entertainment, etc.
| 66 Ways to Save Money66 ways you can start saving money today!Saving Money on Groceries
Tips on how to save money when grocery shopping. Tips on how to save on your energy bill. Tips on how to save on your utility bills. |
Save Money at The Gas PumpHow to save on gas.Save Money on Entertainment
Ideas on how to save money on entertainment. Save Money on Phone, Internet, TV Tips on how to save money. Resources and tips on how to save money. |
Budgeting and Managing Money.
Managing money while unemployed can be difficult. Learn more about managing money during tough times and how to set up a tight budget.
| Tips for Managing Your Money (PDF)Tips on how to manage money during tough economic times.Household Budget Worksheet
Interactive budgeting worksheet. |
Budget BuildingTips on how to build a tight budget from Today Show contributor, Jean Chatzky.Saving On A Tight Budget
You can save money – even on tight budgets. |
Retirement Accounts and Health Care Coverage.
Many unemployed workers worry about their retirement and insurance coverage. Learn more about what happens to your retirement and insurance coverage after a job loss.
| WA Department of Retirement SystemsRetirement information for Washington State public employees.Job Dislocation – Making Smart Financial Choices (PDF)
Information about making smart financial choices after a job loss. Retirement and Health Care Coverage Q&A’s about retirement and health care coverage for dislocated workers. |
Health Coverage and Retirement BenefitsHelpful information about health care coverage and retirement benefits.Your Employer’s Bankruptcy – How Will It Affect Your Employee Benefits?
Fact sheet on how an employer’s bankruptcy will affect your benefits. Pension Benefits After Job Loss Tips on protecting your pension and health care benefits after a job loss. |
Taxes.
The loss of a job can create new tax issues. Learn more about filing taxes while unemployed.
| Financially Distressed TaxpayersThe IRS recently announced new steps to help financially distressed taxpayers.Tax Impact Of Job Loss (PDF)
The loss of a job may create new tax issues for you. Learn more from the IRS. Information from the IRS about unemployment compensation. |
VITA Program: Free Tax HelpHelp for low- to moderate-income people who cannot prepare their own tax returns.Earned Income Tax Credit
The EITC is a refundable federal income tax credit for low to moderate incomes. Your rights as a taxpayer |
