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First 7 days

A simple timeline so nothing slips.

Today

  • Save documents
  • Cash snapshot
  • List your top 5 questions for HR

Next 48 hours

  • Send written questions to HR
  • Note any signing deadlines on your calendar

This week

  • Map benefits end date and COBRA window
  • Draft a one-line layoff explanation
  • List 10 people to tell privately

Before signing anything

  • Read severance carefully
  • If anything is unclear, ask in writing
  • Consider speaking with an employment lawyer

Before benefits end

  • Compare COBRA vs Marketplace vs spouse plan
  • Confirm dependents' coverage

References

First-week prompts in this checklist reference materials published by the U.S. Department of Labor on the WARN Act, COBRA, and unemployment insurance; by HealthCare.gov on Special Enrollment Periods; and by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services on nonimmigrant grace periods. Unemployment insurance is administered by each state's workforce agency, which decides eligibility. For severance and immigration questions specific to your situation, consult an employment attorney licensed in your state or a qualified immigration attorney.