Just got laid off, what should I do first?

They called a meeting on Friday and 11 of us were let go. I had been there 11 years. I worked as an electrician's helper before this. I have not told my family yet. What did you do in the first week?

File for unemployment right away. Do not wait for severance decisions. The date you file can matter.

Ask for your final pay, unused leave and any documents in writing before you leave, if you still can.