I filed for unemployment this morning, the first day in 13 years that I don't have a job. I've never filed for unemployment before and have never known anyone who has had to file, so this is a big step for me.
I'm going to be honest here, I've always associated unemployment with negative images - a woman with five kids trying to get over on the system or someone who really isn't disabled, but filed for disability because he just doesn't want to work. I never thought someone like me - a college-educated middle class reporter, who's married to a college-educated, middle-class engineer - would ever have to file for unemployment, but I don't have a job.
I'm getting a generous severance package from my previous employer, so the thought did cross my mind not to apply. But I've been working more than a decade and part of the taxes I pay goes to fund unemployment, so that money is owed to me.
So, filing was the first thing I did this morning. It was an easy process; I did it online, sitting on my couch in my robe. After I filled out the forms, which required me to explain that my newspaper downsized 250 positions and that I was willing to work now and that I'm actively looking for a job, I received a notice saying I successfully filled out the paperwork. I have a re-employment orientation meeting Feb. 20, where I will meet with someone who will help me find a job. I start getting the weekly checks after the meeting, but the first check will be retroactive. And I was pleasantly surprised at the amount, $560 a week after taxes!
Even though I'm just one day into unemployment, I'm already looking forward to finding another job. I'm not the type who likes to sit around and watch talk shows all day. I had five days off around Thanksgiving and by day three I was going crazy. So, I can't imagine sitting around the house sane for more than a month or so. Until I find another job, I plan to freelance and volunteer at my church's office.
Wish me luck!
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