Layoff happened 12 days ago, feeling lost (Wichita)

They called a meeting on Thursday and 12 of us were let go. I had been there 12 years. There are 12 people counting on me, so I am trying to be careful. I have a box of my things and a short letter about benefits. Which steps were urgent?

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

Give yourself the first couple of days to be upset. I did, and then I felt able to plan.