If you’re one of the thousands of UPS employees affected by the recent layoffs, you’re not alone and you don’t have to navigate this chapter alone either.
Layoffs are hard. There’s the shock of the news, the emotional weight of losing something familiar, and the financial uncertainty that follows. But there’s also something else: opportunity. With the right steps, you can come out of this transition stronger, more secure, and with a financial plan that supports your long-term goals.
In this article, we’ll walk you through exactly what to do in the days and weeks after a layoff—and how to protect your financial future.
🧠 Step 1: Take a Breath, Then Take Inventory
Before making big decisions, take a moment to process. Give yourself the mental space to grieve the loss of your job and regroup.
Once you're ready, it’s time to get clear on where you stand financially:
How much do you have in savings? Check your checking, savings, and any emergency fund accounts.
What expenses can you cut? Identify what’s essential (mortgage, utilities, food) and what can be paused or eliminated.
Are you eligible for severance or unemployment? UPS may be offering severance packages—be sure to review them carefully before signing.
📝 Tip: Don’t make any big financial moves until you’ve spoken with a professional. Severance packages, retirement distributions, and health insurance decisions can all have tax implications.
💼 Step 2: File for Unemployment and Health Benefits
If you’re eligible, don’t wait to apply for unemployment. Delays could mean missed income when you need it most.
Here’s what to do:
Visit dol.georgia.gov to apply for unemployment in Georgia or your state’s Department of Labor website.
Explore health insurance options via COBRA or the healthcare marketplace at healthcare.gov.
🩺 Pro Tip: Losing your job qualifies as a “special enrollment period” for health insurance, meaning you don’t have to wait until open enrollment to get coverage.
💰 Step 3: Don’t Panic About Your 401(k) or Pension
Many UPS employees have retirement plans like a 401(k) or even a pension. You may be wondering: “Should I cash it out?”
Short answer: Probably not.
Cashing out early could trigger taxes and penalties.
You may have the option to roll over your 401(k) into an IRA, which could give you more control over investments and fees.
If you’re close to retirement, there may be smart ways to use your plan without jeopardizing your long-term goals.
📞 Before making a move, talk to a financial advisor who can help you weigh your options based on age, debt, savings, and retirement plans.
📉 Step 4: Avoid Financial Traps
Layoffs often trigger a financial domino effect—missed payments, mounting debt, and quick-fix decisions. To stay grounded:
Avoid payday loans and high-interest credit cards.
Call lenders proactively to request hardship plans, payment deferrals, or rate reductions.
Don’t dip into retirement or cash out life insurance unless it’s a true emergency.
🔐 Remember: You still have options—and the ability to protect your financial security through this.
🔮 Step 5: Make a Plan for the Next 30, 60, and 90 Days
It’s not just about getting through the week—it’s about building momentum toward your next move.
Ask yourself:
What’s my income goal for the next 3 months?
What industries or roles match my current skills?
Should I use this time to upskill or earn a certification?
What are my biggest financial risks right now?
👥 You don’t have to plan alone. Working with a financial planner can give you structure, strategy, and peace of mind.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Go Through This Alone
Losing a job—especially one as steady and structured as a UPS position—is life-changing. But it doesn’t have to be life-derailing.
We specialize in helping UPS employees like you create a clear, confident financial plan after job loss. Whether you need help budgeting, understanding your benefits, or rebuilding for the future, we’re here for you.
📅 Book a complimentary call with our team today. Let’s build your plan forward.