If you’re sitting there thinking, “I’ve lost my job — what do I do now?” — you’re not alone, and there are practical steps you can take to regain control.
Losing your job can feel overwhelming. Whether it was expected or sudden, being without a steady income brings both emotional and financial pressure.
This guide walks you through 10 key things to get sorted as soon as possible. From sorting finances to looking after your mental health, it’s designed to help you stay grounded and take action — one step at a time.
I’ve Lost My Job: 10 things to Get Sorted ASAP
1. Breathe — and Let It Sink In
First, give yourself space to process what’s happened. Losing a job isn’t just a financial shock — it can hit your confidence, identity, and routine. It’s okay to feel anxious, angry, or uncertain.
You don’t have to figure everything out today. Take a deep breath. Acknowledge the situation. Then move forward with a clear head.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not weak — you’re human. And there is help available.
2. Check What You’re Owed
Before anything else, make sure you’re receiving everything you’re entitled to from your employer. This could include:
- Final payslip
- Unused holiday pay
- Redundancy pay (if eligible)
- Notice period pay
Ask for a breakdown in writing and keep copies of all communications. If you feel something’s off, Citizens Advice can help you review it:
🔗 citizensadvice.org.uk/work/leaving-a-job
3. Apply for Benefits Immediately
Don’t delay — benefits can take weeks to process, so the sooner you apply, the better.
You may be eligible for:
- Universal Credit (main benefit for people out of work)
- New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) if you’ve paid enough National Insurance
- Housing Benefit or Council Tax Support
Use the government’s eligibility checker to see what you can claim:
🔗 gov.uk/benefits-calculators
Applying doesn’t mean failure. These systems exist to support people during hard times — including you.
4. Review Your Expenses and Cut Back Where You Can
Now’s the time to look at your budget with fresh eyes. Print out your last 1–2 months of bank statements and identify:
- Essential bills (rent/mortgage, utilities, food)
- Non-essentials (subscriptions, takeaways, impulse purchases)
- Variable expenses (fuel, travel, shopping)
Then:
- Cancel or pause non-essential subscriptions
- Switch to budget versions of regular items
- Look for cheaper insurance, broadband, or mobile plans
Even small changes — like swapping branded groceries or switching streaming plans — can give you breathing room fast.
5. Talk to Friends and Family
This one’s not always easy, but it’s vital.
Let someone close to you know what’s going on. You might feel ashamed or embarrassed — but most people have either been through it themselves or know someone who has. Opening up can reduce the emotional weight, offer perspective, and may even lead to opportunities or advice.
Support doesn’t always mean money — it can mean a meal, a kind word, or someone helping you think through your next step.
6. Prioritise Your Emergency Fund (If You Have One)
If you’ve managed to build an emergency fund, now’s the time to rely on it.
But use it strategically:
- Cover essential expenses first
- Avoid panic-spending or emotional purchases
- Track what’s left weekly so you stay in control
If you don’t have an emergency fund, don’t beat yourself up. Let this experience be a reminder of how valuable it is to build one when you’re back on your feet.
7. Get Support With Bills and Debts
Many companies offer temporary support if you let them know early. Reach out to:
- Your mortgage provider or landlord (you may be eligible for a payment holiday or reduced rent plan)
- Utility providers — ask about hardship schemes
- Credit card and loan providers — request a payment pause or a lower interest rate
Be proactive. The sooner you speak to them, the more options you’ll have.
Charities like StepChange and National Debtline can help you navigate this:
🔗 stepchange.org
🔗 nationaldebtline.org
8. Start a Job Search Strategy
You don’t need to rush into the first role you see, but putting a structure around your job hunt will help you feel more in control.
Start by:
- Updating your CV and LinkedIn
- Listing your skills and potential industries
- Setting small daily goals (e.g. apply for 2 jobs, reach out to 1 contact)
- Exploring retraining or short online courses (some are free)
Jobcentre Plus can help you find opportunities and training:
🔗 gov.uk/contact-jobcentre-plus
Remember, finding a job is a job — give yourself credit for the time and energy it takes.
9. Look After Your Mental Health
Losing your job is one of the top life stressors — it’s normal to feel anxious, low, or angry.
Stay active if you can. Keep a routine. Stay connected with people. If your mental health starts slipping, reach out for support — early.
Some places that can help:
- Mind: mind.org.uk
- Samaritans: 116 123 — free, 24/7
- NHS Talking Therapies: self-refer in your area
You don’t have to handle this alone. Your mental health matters just as much as your finances.
10. Take Small Wins, and Stay Hopeful
Not everything will be sorted in a day — and that’s okay.
Every step you take — checking what you’re owed, applying for benefits, making a call — is progress. Focus on what you can control, not what you’ve lost.
This phase won’t last forever. Many people look back on periods of unemployment as a turning point — whether into a better job, a new path, or simply a stronger sense of resilience.
Final Thoughts: This Doesn’t Define You
Losing your job doesn’t make you a failure. It doesn’t erase your skills, your experience, or your potential.
Right now, your focus is survival — financial, emotional, and practical. But in time, you’ll rebuild — possibly stronger than before.
While the system isn’t perfect, there is support out there — benefits, charities, training schemes, and real people who want to help. The steps above aren’t just a checklist — they’re a way to take control when things feel uncertain.
And if you ever think, “I should have saved more” or “I wish I’d seen this coming” — pause. You’re not alone. Learn what you can, but don’t carry the blame. Focus on moving forward, one small action at a time.
Disclaimer:
This article is for general information and educational purposes only. We are not financial advisers or mental health professionals. If you are struggling with your finances or emotional wellbeing, it’s important to seek advice from qualified professionals. For financial matters, consider speaking to a regulated financial adviser or a debt charity. For mental health support, reach out to a GP or a licensed mental health professional. Everyone’s circumstances are different, and getting tailored support can make all the difference.