Career Coach

Laid off at 50: what now?

Updated

Don't sign anything or rush the search in the first days: secure your money and benefits, then look for work through people, not job boards. In the US, if you're 40 or older and your severance asks you to waive age claims, you get at least 21 days to consider it (45 in a group layoff) and 7 days to revoke after signing.

What to do

  1. Read the severance offer slowly. Check the pay, when health coverage ends, unused vacation, and what you give up by signing. In the US, an age-claim waiver must advise you in writing to consult an attorney: for a large offer, a short review is worth it.
  2. File for unemployment right away. In the US, each state runs its own program; contact yours as soon as you're out of work. CareerOneStop lists every state's site. Elsewhere, contact your national employment service.
  3. Sort out health coverage. In the US, COBRA usually lets you keep your employer plan for up to 18 months, and you have 60 days to enroll. Compare its cost with a marketplace plan. More in your first week after a layoff.
  4. Call your network first. The people who've seen your work are your fastest route. Send a short note to twenty former colleagues, clients and managers this week.
  5. Update for today. Focus your resume on the last 10 to 15 years, recent tools and results in numbers. Consider contract or consulting work as a bridge: it brings income and a recent example.
  6. Give the search a routine. Take a few days to absorb the news, then set fixed hours: outreach in the morning, applications and learning after.

What to say

To reach former colleagues, send something like this:

Hi [Name], my role at [company] was cut last week in a restructuring. I'm looking for my next role in [area], where I can bring my experience in [two strengths]. If you hear of anything, or know someone I should talk to, I'd really appreciate it. Happy to return the favor anytime.

Avoid

  • Signing the severance agreement on the spot.
  • Sounding bitter about the layoff: keep it short, factual and forward-looking.
  • Sending hundreds of online applications and waiting.

Your situation

Have you been offered severance?
What do you want next?

Questions

Is it hard to find a job after 50?

It can take longer, so plan your money for a longer search. Referrals, contract work and roles that value seniority are usually faster routes than cold applications.

Can I negotiate my severance?

You can ask, especially for more weeks of pay, longer health coverage, a neutral reference or job search help. Ask in writing and be specific. The answer may be no.

Is age discrimination illegal in the US?

Yes. Federal law protects workers 40 and older at employers with 20 or more employees. Rules vary by state and country, so check the official source where you live.

Sources