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7 actions to consider if you’re unemployed

The potential for a job loss in today’s economy is real. That’s why it’s critical to be prepared — whether for a job loss or other potential crisis.

If you are newly unemployed, here are seven actions you should consider.

1. File for unemployment benefits        

To receive unemployment insurance benefits, you need to file a claim with the unemployment insurance program in the state where you worked. Depending on the state, claims may be filed in person, by telephone, or online.

2. Get on a budget and find ways to cut back

Start with a list of all your income and expenses. Include only expenses that are necessary. Now is the time to cut back on the unnecessary expenses that you can. Stop subscriptions to streaming services and cable, cancel health club memberships, eat at home.

3. Review your health insurance options

If you have a spouse or partner who has an employer health plan that you’re eligible to join, consider looking into that option.

If you and your dependents are covered by an employer-sponsored health insurance plan, a provision of COBRA entitles you to continue coverage when you’d normally lose it. Most larger employers (20+ employees) are required to offer COBRA coverage. Under COBRA, you can generally continue your health insurance for 18 months if your employment has been terminated or if your work hours have been reduced. The premium you pay will be both the employee share and the employer share.    

4. Consider taking severance

Taking severance pay, if it’s offered, in a lump sum gives you control over your money, but you may lose some employee benefits such as group health insurance. If you take your severance as a continuation of salary, you may be able to keep your benefits.

5. Talk to your creditors

Try negotiating with your creditors to lower interest rates on your credit cards, defer a payment or two on your car loan, or reduce your monthly payments temporarily. You also may be able to lower your home mortgage monthly payments by refinancing to a lower rate (if you can qualify despite your job loss), or by negotiating a longer repayment period.

6. Look for ways to increase your income

Consider a part-time or temporary job. Also, your spouse or partner may be able to get a job if he or she is not already working.     

You may be able to borrow from the cash value of your life insurance policies. But you’ll be limited as to how much you can borrow by the amount of cash available and other policy restrictions. And you’ll be charged interest on the borrowed funds, so if you don’t repay the loan, it can reduce your death benefit or even cause the insurance to lapse.

7. Consider a withdrawal from your retirement account

Generally, as a last resort, you may need to consider withdrawing from your tax-deferred retirement accounts, such as your IRA or 401(k). Any money you withdraw from these types of accounts likely will be taxed as ordinary income. Always work with your financial and tax advisors before making significant financial decisions like withdrawing from your retirement account.

 We are here to help you 

Together, we can review your options based on your specific financial situation. We are here to help you navigate any short-term financial needs while we continue to support your long-term financial goals.

For personalized advice and help to achieve your goals contact Ameriprise Financial Advisor: Peter Weinbaum. 
770-497-5755   Peter.Weinbaum@ampf.com      https://bit.ly/3YrSHEi