Official resources after a layoff
The government pages that set the actual rules, organized by what you're trying to do. They're free. For deadlines and eligibility, the official source (often your state agency) is the final word.
For people in the United States. Links checked Sep 26, 2026. LayoffOS isn't affiliated with any government agency, and this list isn't legal or benefits advice.
File for unemployment
You file in the state where you worked; these federal pages link to each state.
- Unemployment Benefits Finder (opens in a new tab)
CareerOneStop (U.S. Department of Labor)
Pick your state to get its filing website and phone number.
- Unemployment benefits (opens in a new tab)
USAGov
Plain-language overview of eligibility, applying, and avoiding scams.
Keep or replace health coverage
Federal law and the federal marketplace; some states run their own marketplaces.
- COBRA Continuation Coverage (opens in a new tab)
U.S. Department of Labor (EBSA)
Who qualifies, the election window, how long it lasts, and what it costs.
- Coverage options if you're unemployed (opens in a new tab)
HealthCare.gov
How marketplace plans compare with COBRA.
- Special Enrollment Period (opens in a new tab)
HealthCare.gov
Losing job-based coverage can open a window to enroll; what documents you may need.
- Protecting Retirement and Health Benefits after Job Loss (opens in a new tab)
U.S. Department of Labor (EBSA)
COBRA, a spouse's plan, the marketplace, and what to request about your retirement plan.
Understand a severance agreement
Federal rules; state law may add protections.
- Understanding Waivers of Discrimination Claims in Employee Severance Agreements (opens in a new tab)
U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
What makes an age-discrimination waiver valid, including review and revocation periods.
- Severance Pay (opens in a new tab)
U.S. Department of Labor
Federal law doesn't require severance; it depends on your agreement.
Final paycheck
Set mostly by state law; ask your state labor office.
- Last Paycheck (opens in a new tab)
U.S. Department of Labor
Federal law doesn't require immediate final pay; some states do.
- State Labor Offices (opens in a new tab)
U.S. Department of Labor (Wage and Hour Division)
Contact details for every state and territory labor department.
Taxes on severance and unemployment
Federal tax; state tax treatment varies.
- What if I lose my job? (opens in a new tab)
IRS
Severance, unemployment and unused-leave payouts are taxable; check your withholding.
- Topic no. 418, Unemployment compensation (opens in a new tab)
IRS
Form 1099-G, voluntary withholding, and estimated payments.
Retirement accounts when you leave
Federal.
- Rollovers of retirement plan and IRA distributions (opens in a new tab)
IRS
Direct vs. 60-day rollovers and the withholding on checks paid to you.
Job search help
Free local centers nationwide.
- American Job Center Finder (opens in a new tab)
CareerOneStop (U.S. Department of Labor)
Find free in-person job search and training help near you.
- Worker ReEmployment (opens in a new tab)
CareerOneStop (U.S. Department of Labor)
A starting page for laid-off workers.
Help with bills, food, and housing
Federal hub; most programs are run by states.
- Facing financial hardship (opens in a new tab)
USAGov
Links to food assistance, rent and utility help, and other programs.
LayoffOS keeps your runway estimate, deadlines, benefits, and job search organized in one place.