File for Unemployment

• File for your unemployment benefits the week you get laid off, or as soon as possible. What many people don't know, reports the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, is that you can get unemployment benefits even if your employer gave you a severance package. The sooner you file, the faster you'll start receiving the financial support, as it can take your state's unemployment office weeks to go through your forms and start the payment process.
  
  

Talk to Your Creditors

• Call up your mortgage broker, credit card company and other lenders. While many people feel embarrassed about being laid off and don't want to tell their creditors, this can cause them to miss out on major savings. Depending on your past financial history -- for example, a history of on-time payments -- and your credit score, your creditors may offer you a new payment plan that better matches your new financial situation, or even put your payment schedule on hold.
  
  

Rethink Your Budget

• You don't have the same amount of money coming in like you did before you got laid off, so don't spend the same amount of money that you used to. Rethink your budget and focus on the necessities. For example, dropping the daily cappuccino habit can save you hundreds of dollars a month, and canceling your premium cable service can net you even more savings.
  
  

Get Training

• After years in the workforce, you may be out of the loop on new technologies, strategies and techniques in your industry. Attending classes, college or even community training events can help you brush up on your marketable skills and make you more attractive to future employers. It could also be a chance for you to learn about new careers, letting you explore the adventure of changing careers now that you're temporarily or permanently out of your old one.
  
  

Solicit Help on the Job Search

• Don't go on the job hunt alone. Nonprofits, government agencies and community centers often offer job search searches and centers for people who've been laid off. Services can include access to all-in-one job listings, assistance with crafting your resume and guidance with preparing for interviews.