Hiding a layoff from the family, bad idea? - 9 months and counting

My spouse does not know yet that I was let go as a customer-service rep. I would rather hear the honest version than the polite one. Bills are coming up and I cannot keep this quiet. How did you handle it?

Do not wait until a bill surprises them. The longer it goes, the harder it gets.

Kids often pick up more than you think. A short, calm explanation helped mine feel secure.