In today's economy,
the thought of losing your job is a real possibility. Perhaps you're already in
that situation. But don't despair, there are things you can do and places
you can go to help you through this tough time.
The first place you
must go is to your unemployment agency. You may even be able to apply for
benefits online. Either way, contacting them is the first step you need to
take. The
unemployment agency provides financial benefits to those who qualify and they'll
help you find another job.
Many states
are now offering programs that extend unemployment benefits so you can go back
to school and learn a new trade or skill. Be sure to ask your local agent about
any special programs they're currently offering.
Although they can
make a significant difference in the short-term, unemployment benefits are
usually much lower than your normal salary. However, there are many other sources you can
also take advantage of to help you get by during this rough financial time.
Let's look at some of your options:
1.
Reduce
monthly expenses.
Take a serious look at some of the things you can live without for a while
until you get back on your feet. Go through all of your bills and expenses and
cut out the things that aren't necessities. Be honest with yourself - just because
you think you can't live without your cable or cell phone, doesn't mean it's
true. Some of the first places to look
include:
·
Television
·
Phones
- both cell and land line
·
Cell
texting or other data communications
·
Transportation
·
Eating
out
·
Power
usage
·
Air
conditioning and heating
2. Save money by meal planning. You can save over $100 (based on
a family of 4 with bi-monthly pay periods) on each trip to the grocery store
simply by planning meals ahead, using coupons and shopping your grocer's weekly
sales flyers.
·
Not
only will you reduce how much you spend on food, but you'll probably reduce
some weight around your waistline as well. Who couldn't use that added benefit?
3. Waiting tables. One of the fastest ways to earn
some quick cash is to wait tables. This may not be glamorous, but it can bring
in some immediate cash, and many restaurants beef up staff for the summer months.
4. Community agencies. If you're in dire straits and
need assistance right now, there are many local agencies you can turn to for
aid. The United Way and Salvation Army are located in most areas and offer a
variety of programs that may be able to help you.
·
Your
area may have different agencies, so check online or in the phone book for the
ones in your community.
5. Government agencies. Besides the unemployment agency,
most areas have a Department of Human Resources, Social Services, or Health
Department that can help or guide you to assistance.
6. Sell items on eBay. Take a good look around your home,
shed, or garage. How many boxes do you have lying around filled with stuff you
never use? You'll be surprised at what people will pay for what you consider
junk!
7. Have a yard sale. You can make a nice chunk of
change by selling off furniture, clothing, and other household items you don't
use anymore.
8. Set up your own online or offline
shop. If you can
make arts and crafts, sell your items on eBay, Etsy or at local craft fairs.
With some
communication, research, and creativity, you can take advantage of your time
off to learn a new skill or start a new venture with skills and passions you
already have. Have some fun utilizing your creative ability while making
the extra money you need to make ends meet.
These tough
financial times don't have to be devastating. Use these tips to take advantage
of the resources available to you to reduce the negative impact on your life.
You may even look back on this time as the lucky stroke that pushed you toward
success in your new career!
For more career ideas, sign up to listen to the FREE teleseminar (in the right column).
206-999-1192
