Am going to be another statistic-found out am getting laid off from my job :(

[claimsgirl66]

Thanks for the warm words of support. And SueH, super single mom, thanks for sharing too. Makes me feel less alone!

Based on what we have now heard, I am now thinking the 6 months was best case scenario and I would be surprised if my office was open at year end....sooo.... I went thru my budget, figured out the following areas in my budget:

*Cut back on the extra $500 I am spending on debt reduction, (cc's student loans) & just minimums on auto and mortgage, etc..as much as I hate too.

*I also figured I can take a $20K pay cut at a new job, and still keep my head above water. Would not thrill me, but I ran the #'s. It is do-able.

*Cut back from full cable to basic...that would save $30 per month. I figure I do need the internet for FV, paying bills, emails and job hunting.

*I spend about $200 per month on food, toiletries & paper goods for myself. I can eat a little more simply (I am pretty frugal already) but figure can nip $50 here if needed.

*That $70 per month "fun money" of dining out....well that will be gone.

*I have a monthly payment plan for my heating oil which was greatly reduced as I had a balance from last year. I only owe $150 for the rest of the season (April) so that is good.

I have received many calls from colleagues and former co-workers and that support helps. I am going to allow myself to wallow in self pity for a few more days then put on a game face and email my resume' out.

I have spent 20 years (yikes) in my industry. I work in insurance/financial (boring!)and like everywhere else, they are "consolidating" offices ...streamlining, god I hate those terms.

Thanks to this board, I feel a little less helplesss and like I have a set of skills needed to handle this a bit better. Thanks for letting me vent....again!

[jamie79]

I am sorry you are going thru this. Sounds like you have a plan

[Luv2BeFrugal]

Awwww...I'm so sorry...that just sucks!! Try to save up all you can. I'd start looking for work now...a stable job is more important than a severance package.

Keep us posted... Sending big hugs!!!