Laid Off from Your Government Job in a Shutdown? Your 7-Day Action Plan
Practical First-Week Survival Guide (Step-by-Step Checklist)
You’ve just been handed a furlough notice or RIF letter. Here’s exactly what to do in the first week:
Day 1
Read every document you were given twice. Note exact recall rights, severance (if any), and administrative furlough vs. excepted status.
File for unemployment immediately (yes, federal employees usually qualify during shutdowns). Most states allow online filing the same day.
Log into LiteBlue (USPS), eOPF, or your agency’s HR portal and download/save your SF-50s, last LES, performance reviews, and leave balances.
Day 2–3
Apply for healthcare continuation (FEHB stays active 365 days after separation in most RIFs; you’ll be billed directly).
Freeze your SCF (security clearance) with DCSA if you have one — do NOT let it lapse.
Update your resume with your latest SF-50 language and accomplishments.
Day 4–5
Activate your USAJOBS “Saved Searches” for your series/grade/location.
Join or reactivate your clearance on ClearanceJobs.com.
Reach out to three trusted colleagues for references (do it now while everyone still remembers you).
Day 6–7
Create a budget assuming zero income for 90–180 days (most shutdowns/backpay scenarios resolve within that window).
If you’re within 5 years of retirement eligibility, schedule a free consultation with a federal retirement specialist (many offer them pro bono to laid-off feds).
Laid Off from Your Government Job in a Shutdown? Your 7-Day Action Plan
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