Clever Girl Finance isn’t just about money. We are about freedom, choices, and confidence. We know how overwhelming finances can feel, especially when you’re juggling career, family, and personal goals. That’s why we’ve built one of the largest personal finance communities for women, with over 100,000 women learning, growing, and winning with their money together.When you subscribe, you’re not just signing up for financial tips, you’re joining a movement. You’ll get access to relatable, judgment-free advice designed to help you ditch debt, save consistently, and invest with confidence. We break down money topics in a way that’s simple, practical, and actually fun. Whether you want to build your first emergency fund, pay off thousands in debt, or finally start building wealth for the long term, we’ve got the tools and support you need. With our resources, tools, and strategies, you’ll know you’re not alone on this journey. Subscribe today—because your future self deserves the financial freedom you’re dreaming of!
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⏳Facing Uncertainty? 4 Smart Money Moves If You’ve Been Laid Off (or Worried You Might Be)
Between government layoffs and companies relying more on technology, job loss is affecting more people every day. Because of these uncertain times, it’s important to know how to adapt to employment changes.
If you’ve recently experienced a job loss, here are steps you can take to stay afloat and keep your finances steady.
And if you’re worried your job might be at risk, use these tips as a guide and start taking the actions you can now.
Money Move #1: Rework your budget ASAP
Getting told that you have only one more paycheck for the foreseeable future is scary. Your stomach twists into knots when thinking about rent, credit card payments, groceries, and everything else. When your world starts to implode, the smartest move you can make, no matter how panicked you feel, is to take a close look at your budget.
When I was laid off years ago, looking at my budget felt heavy. Reviewing my expenses reminded me that I could no longer afford my weekly sushi order. Yet reassessing my budget helped me regain control and prepare for the months ahead.
To ease the uncomfortable feeling, try reviewing your budget with a fresh perspective. Your budget evaluation is going to be your saving grace.
So, take a few deep breaths, remind yourself that everything will be okay, and let’s review your budget.
Trim non-essentials
First, highlight non-essential items in your budget. These are the things you’ll temporarily pause while searching for new work. Yes, it might sting a little to cut your regular nail appointments or morning coffee runs, but remember, it’s only for now.
Additionally, cancel any subscriptions or automatic payments that don’t go toward essential bills or necessities. This might even mean pausing your savings contributions if needed.
Create a bare-bones budget
Next, shift your budget to a bare-bones or “survival” budget. Under your expenses, only include what you absolutely need to get by. If you’re not sure where to start, here’s a quick guide:
Rent or mortgage payments
Gas, water, and electricity bills
Car payments and insurance
Gas or public transportation
Groceries (just the basics)
Medications
Health insurance
Once your budget is filled with the essential expenses, calculate the total cost. With your new total, you’ll have a clearer idea of how much you need each month to get by.
Money move #2: File for unemployment + explore support resources
Next, make a beeline for the unemployment office. Filing for unemployment can take time to process, which may delay when you receive your benefits. Submitting your application right away helps cut down that waiting period.
After applying, look into other resources available to you.
Programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, local rent assistance, and other support options can help you cover essential expenses.
USA.gov is a great place to start—it can guide you through applying for SNAP, finding help with bills, and locating housing assistance.
You can also check 211.org and AARP.org for more information on navigating unemployment and accessing support services.
Lastly, if you’re receiving a severance package, focus on making that money stretch. Build a short-term budget around it and ensure it’s enough to cover your essential costs while you get back on your feet.
Money move #3: Focus on stability
Losing your job is not only a financial hit, it’s also an emotional setback. While your funds may be limited, it can still be tempting to spend on unnecessary items. The stress of unemployment and the pressure to find new work often trigger impulse spending.
To avoid overspending, focus on finding non-monetary ways to cope with stress. This could mean going for regular walks, talking with a good friend, or practicing meditation.
When you’re out of work, it’s easy to focus on what you lack. But if you shift your mindset toward finding new income opportunities, you may discover creative ways to earn extra cash.
Try selling items you no longer need or exploring short-term gigs to bridge the gap until you secure full-time work.
Likewise, consider pausing major financial decisions. Buying a new car, moving to a different apartment, or investing in the stock market are all decisions that can wait.
It might feel like you’re putting your goals on hold, but remember, you can always revisit those big purchases once your finances are stable again.
Money move #4: Generate income; even if temporary
Try to view job loss as a transition rather than a complete restart. Your next opportunity is out there, you just have to find it.
Focus on becoming a strong candidate for future employers. Take time to update your résumé and refresh your interview skills. Set a clear goal for yourself, such as applying to five new jobs each week.
When starting your job search, tap into your network. Look through your email contacts, your phone, and LinkedIn to see who you can reconnect with. A simple message letting them know you’re looking for work could open the door to new opportunities.
Next, consider picking up side gigs. List your skills and see which ones you can offer to clients or people in your network. Don’t underestimate your abilities; organizing data, creating Canva templates, or sorting files might seem like small tasks to you, but could be incredibly valuable to someone else.
These temporary jobs might pay less or involve work you’re not used to doing, but remember, it’s only temporary. Earning some income is better than none at all, and who knows? This could even spark the idea for your next side hustle or freelance business.
Prioritize your mental and physical health
The last thing to mention isn’t about numbers or money; it’s about you. Losing your job can feel like a blow to your self-esteem, especially if you’ve been with a company for years. You may feel unimportant or under-appreciated, but remember: unemployment does not define your worth.
Take time to remind yourself of all the things you’ve accomplished and overcome.
Talk with friends, coworkers, and people who truly know you to get a boost of confidence. Everyone experiences setbacksl the most important thing is finding the strength to continue.
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And remember, we’re here to support you. Our free course on finding extra money is a great place to start. No matter what’s ahead, financial stability is the key to overcoming challenges and thriving.
PLUS when you sign up for a free course, you can schedule a completely free call with one of our amazing Clever Girl Finance mentors. WE ARE IN YOUR CORNER!
P.S.Click here to get the My Wealth Plan Workbook and plan your best year yet.
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Clever Girl Finance isn’t just about money. We are about freedom, choices, and confidence. We know how overwhelming finances can feel, especially when you’re juggling career, family, and personal goals. That’s why we’ve built one of the largest personal finance communities for women, with over 100,000 women learning, growing, and winning with their money together.When you subscribe, you’re not just signing up for financial tips, you’re joining a movement. You’ll get access to relatable, judgment-free advice designed to help you ditch debt, save consistently, and invest with confidence. We break down money topics in a way that’s simple, practical, and actually fun. Whether you want to build your first emergency fund, pay off thousands in debt, or finally start building wealth for the long term, we’ve got the tools and support you need. With our resources, tools, and strategies, you’ll know you’re not alone on this journey. Subscribe today—because your future self deserves the financial freedom you’re dreaming of!
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