Connect to Benefits and Services After a Layoff_LargeImage

Connect to Benefits and Services After a Layoff

June 1, 2022


Return to the Layoff Step Guide Home Page for more information.​

​There are many services and resources available to you after experiencing a layoff. These services and resources provide you with the tools necessary to transition into a new job or career path successfully. Use the information below to help you stay on track after your layoff.

The steps below offer a path to guide you through the benefits and services available in Illinois.


1.  Unemployment Insurance (UI): The first step after experiencing a layoff is to apply for Unemployment Insurance (UI) through the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES). UI provides you with supplemental income during your job search. You can file your claim online at ides.illinois.gov. You can find more information about UI benefits, including how long they last, and the requirements to qualify h​er​e.



2. ​Health Insurance Plans: The next step is to keep tabs on any Health Insurance Plans that you may have. There are many ways to continue to be covered for medical emergencies while between jobs. The Department of Insurance provides individuals with information to find the best way to continue to stay covered.

    • Find out about the Illinois Department of Insurance. Find the Department's mission, helpful phone numbers, office contact information,  and other resources to help you. 

    • Learn about Illinois health insurance facts and find out more about the COBRA health insurance continuation plan here.   

    • Check out more Illinois insurance facts and read about how insurance coverage plans and customers are protected under HIPAA here.​​​


​​​3. Housing Assistance Programs: The Federal Government has programs in place to assist with housing payments and mortgage assistance. There are also state-specific benefits and programs. There are many types of programs to help fit your situation. Get your mortgage payment reduced or suspended for up to a year! Check out the following resources to learn about how they can work for you and if you qualify:

    • The
      U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development provides information on ways to manage mortgage payments and stay out of foreclosure.

    • Learn about
      local options that assist with mortgage help in Illinois. From Chicago to Cairo, find the help and assistance necessary to help ease your mind about mortgage payments during a new job search.​


4. ​​​Local Support Services: There are different supportive services available in areas throughout Illinois. These services can provide you with one on one assistance with your job search, training options, other financial services and more. Local Supportive Service organizations near you are great resources because they know the local laws, economy, and opportunities available to those seeking assistance. Find supportive service agencies near with the
Illinois workNet Service Finder.​​​


5. Money Management: It is important that you have a plan to manage your money during a layoff. Creating a budget, making informed financial decisions, and planning for the future are all important steps. Try reducing your expenses to what is only necessary. This will help you figure out how much Unemployment Insurance will cover and how long your saving can supplement your unemployment insurance. If you were living paycheck-to-paycheck a part-time job can help to keep you on track financially. Remember, you can still receive unemployment benefits while holding some part-time positions. Use the monthly expenses worksheet and the money management resources to help you stay ahead! Make sure to check out the Illinois workNet money management page to find resources and tools for all of your money management needs.         


​​6. Student Loan Assistance: If you have student loans, you can contact your lender, Sallie Mae, Navient, etc. to see available options. You may be able to apply for
Deferment or
Forbearance ​on your loans. Student loan servicers have these options in place to assist loan customers that are going through hardship (a layoff qualifies as a hardship). Some Forbearance may still accrue interest but it is a monthly payment that you will not have to worry about for a temporary time period that you determine. These are options to keep in good standing with the loan companies.​

Using the above services and resources are the first steps to stay on track and reach your career, training, and employment goals after a layoff. You may not require all these services but getting information on the ones that can be helpful to your situation can make a big impact. ​








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