Resources for Displaced Workers
If you've been affected by a layoff in California, this page is organized around what matters most right now. Start at the top and work your way down as you're ready.
Important: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute professional financial, legal, or medical advice. Every situation is different. For guidance specific to your circumstances, consult a licensed professional. If you or someone you know needs immediate support, call or text 988 to reach a trained counselor, 24/7.
Immediate priorities
The first week. Handle these before anything else.
This is step one. Apply through the California Employment Development Department as soon as possible after your last day. Eligibility can begin the day you file. Benefits replace roughly 60-70% of your weekly wages up to a cap. Most claims are processed within 2-3 weeks. You will need your Social Security number, employer information, and last day of work.
Losing employer-sponsored health coverage is a "qualifying life event" that triggers a 60-day special enrollment period. Many displaced workers qualify for subsidized premiums based on their reduced income. Check here before defaulting to COBRA, which can cost $600 or more per month. The deadline is 60 days from your coverage end date.
California's SNAP program for individuals and families experiencing income loss. There is no shame in applying. These benefits exist to bridge exactly this kind of gap. You can apply online through BenefitsCal in about 20 minutes.
Most mortgage lenders, landlords, credit card companies, and utility providers have hardship programs. Call them proactively. Explain that you've been laid off and ask about deferred payments, temporary forbearance, or reduced payment plans. Reaching out early, before you miss a payment, gives you the most options. Many California utilities also offer the CARE rate discount for low-income households.
Managing the transition
Weeks 2 through 4. Once the immediate logistics are handled.
Losing a job is one of the most stressful events a person can experience. Research consistently shows that job loss triggers a grief-like response: shock, denial, anger, and eventually adjustment. This is normal. It does not mean something is wrong with you.
If you're struggling with the stress of job loss, the resources below are free, confidential, and designed for situations like yours.
Dial 2-1-1 to connect with local social services including rent assistance, utility help, food banks, and mental health referrals. Available 24/7 in multiple languages.
A free, peer-run emotional support line for California residents. Not a crisis line. Just someone to talk to who understands what you're going through. Call 1-833-317-4673, available Monday through Sunday.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988. Available 24/7. You can also chat online at 988lifeline.org.
Staying grounded during the search
Job searching is a job in itself, and it can be isolating. A few things that research and career counselors consistently recommend:
Keep a routine. Set a daily schedule that includes time for job searching, physical activity, and something unrelated to work. Unstructured days tend to amplify stress.
Set boundaries on the search. Two to three focused hours of applying per day is more productive than eight hours of scattered activity. Quality over volume.
Talk to people. The isolation that follows job loss is one of its most damaging effects. Reach out to former colleagues, attend local networking events, or join an online job seeker community. You are not the only person going through this.
Give yourself grace. This is a disruptive event. Not every day will be productive. That's expected.
Job search and career resources
Month 2 and beyond. When you're ready to focus on what's next.
Free career counseling, resume review, interview preparation, and job placement services. These centers receive specific federal funding to help displaced workers through the Rapid Response program. Find the one nearest you.
California's state-run job board. Less polished than commercial job boards, but employers who post here are specifically looking to hire California workers.
Join our free Talent Network and let recruiters come to you. We connect displaced workers with verified recruiters who are actively hiring in their field.
California residents can attend community college for free through the California College Promise Grant. Many colleges offer accelerated certificate programs in high-demand fields like healthcare, cybersecurity, and skilled trades.
State-approved training programs that may be fully funded through your local workforce development board. Ask your America's Job Center if you qualify for a training voucher.
Know your rights
Understanding the WARN Act and what your employer owes you.
60 days notice. The California WARN Act requires employers with 75 or more employees to provide 60 calendar days advance written notice before a mass layoff or plant closure. If your employer did not provide adequate notice, you may be entitled to back pay and benefits for the shortfall period.
Pay and benefits continue. During the 60-day notice period, your employer must continue your regular pay and benefits. You remain an employee until the effective date on the WARN notice.
Severance is separate. WARN Act protections are in addition to any severance your employer may offer. You are not required to waive WARN Act rights to receive severance, though some employers structure agreements this way. Consider having an attorney review any separation agreement before signing.
COBRA health coverage. You have 60 days from your coverage end date to elect COBRA continuation, which lets you keep your employer health plan at your own cost. Check Covered California first, because subsidized marketplace plans are often significantly cheaper.
Official California WARN Act information from the Employment Development Department.
If your employer owes you unpaid wages, unused vacation pay, or failed to provide proper WARN notice, you can file a claim with the California Department of Industrial Relations at no cost.
Practical financial guidance from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau on managing bills, debt, and finances during unemployment.
For employers and HR teams. Verify your layoff notice meets 2026 California WARN Act and SB 617 requirements before filing.
Disclaimer: CaliforniaWarn is an independent informational resource. We are not affiliated with the State of California, the Employment Development Department, or any government agency. The content on this page does not constitute professional financial, legal, or medical advice. Consult a licensed professional for guidance specific to your situation.