As many of us have learned, the Lowe’s home improvement store is estimated to lay off thousands of workers from assemblers to janitors.

We here at Jobcase are here to support you!

I think we can all agree that losing your job no matter what the circumstance is a very difficult thing to go through.

If you have a few minutes please comment with some advice about a time where you or someone you know was laid off, or even just say hello to those who might be feeling down after losing their jobs at Lowe’s.

Every kind word you share matters to someone!

Comment below with yours

If you or someone you know has been laid off from work please take a look and share the tips below on what to do next!

1- Take care of YOU Your health is important so don’t go without health coverage! Speak to your employer about extending your health insurance benefit for up to 18 months under COBRA (the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act) if it's available. You have 60 days after your coverage lapses to opt-in or start shopping for your own policy [here] (https://www.healthcare.gov/) Your new employment status allows for you to actively enroll even if it's not open enrollment time.

2- Apply for unemployment benefits To receive unemployment benefits, you need to file a claim with the unemployment program in the state where you worked as soon as possible! Don't delay because this process can take quite a long time. The government-sponsored site, [CareerOneStop] (https://www.careeronestop.org/), has details on unemployment benefits in each state. You also can do a quick Google search to locate your local Department of Labor and unemployment office and apply there as well.

3- Revisit your budget There’s no way of knowing how long you will be unemployed and because your income is now significantly less, it's important to plan for the future. Revisit your accounts and see where you stand. Cut down on your expenses and spend only on what is necessary for the time being (think food, gas, etc.). Put together a list of all the bills you currently pay such as car payments, student loans, rent, mortgage, medical bills, etc. that are non-negotiable. Anything that isn’t essential cancel it for now and focus on the more important bills. If you feel you are unable to pay your mortgage reach out to your bank ASAP and alert them to the problem as well as your landlord if you rent.

4- Stay in touch Don’t be afraid to connect with your coworkers/managers, now is the time. Ask them for their contact information and if they would consider being a reference in the near future. Stick to anyone you worked closely with who can attest to your skills on the job. If they ask you, make sure to offer them the same courtesy.

5- Be positive Right now is a difficult time but remaining positive will help see you through this! Surround yourself with loved ones who will support and guide you and talk to them about how you feel. Stay strong and look to the future. As the saying goes, "This too shall pass."

6- Apply It goes without saying that once you lose a job you need to replace it with another. So revamp that resume! Be sure to add any new skills and experiences you gained over your employment. Then when you are ready, search and apply to jobs in your area [here] (https://www.jobcase.com/jobs/search).

Wishing you the best during this difficult time.

Have questions? Please ask!

We are here to help : )