Surviving Unemployment
Unemployment is difficult and will change the way you live until you find new employment. You can survive unemployment and lessen its effects by knowing what resources are available to you.

Layoffs
Layoff notices will be distributed during the first week in October; impacted employees' last day of work in their current positions will be 21 days later. Impacted employees will be personally contacted by managers in their departments.

In some cases, impacted employees may be able to transition into a vacant position. However, there are relatively few vacancies today and many are being eliminated as part of the implementation of the new budget. For more information see the Pipeline Process.

Filing for unemployment
To file for unemployment benefits claim, visit the Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation’s website. If you have any questions concerning your benefits, call 1-800-204-2418.

Financial resources
The Florida ACCESS Program provides financial and medical assistance, food stamps and other services. Each program has eligibility requirements from state or federal law. 

Apply online at the Florida ACCESS website, call 1-866-762-2237 or contact your local  Children and Families ACCESS Service Center.

Utility assistance
If you anticipate a problem paying your bills, call the utility company and arrange a payment plan. Do not wait until you receive a shut off notice. Florida Power and Light's ASSIST Program offers several payment assistance options.

For more information visit FPL's website. Should you need assistance with your gas or water bills, contact your gas and/or water company directly for more information.

Mortgage assistance
If you are having trouble paying your mortgage visit the County's Foreclosure Prevention website. The website has a wealth of information and resources that may help you save your home.

Health insurance options
Programs such as Miami-Dade Blue and COBRA offers affordable health benefit plans which can help provide health insurance for you and your family. See alternative medical plans, for more health insurance options.

Talk to your family
Unemployment can cause stress on the entire family. Discuss your challenges and plan together. Explain your situation and include them in your new plans as you start a new chapter in life. By sharing the burden and pulling together, family members grow closer together and draw strength from one another. Visiting a professional family counselor may help.

Use our Transition Guide and other resources on this site to help you through the transition process in an informed and effective manner.