Unemployment and DEBT!!!

I have been looking for 3 months and my financial situation is getting critical. My credit cards are maxed and I am out of savings. I keep believing that things will be fine as soon as I get a job which could be any day now. AUGH! What am I supposed to do!

I feel for you I lost my job 6 months ago, I will be starting my new job in another week, let me tell you it has been rough, I am married so me husband has been able to pay some bills , but are electric almost got shut off, but I called them and explained the situation they have been helpful... I cancelled are cable and and changed the plan on our cell phones so they are cheaper(I was even able to get a credit on my bill because we have had their service for 6 years.) we have them because we dont have a home phone and I need a phone for companies to call me about jobs. See where you can cut back . I also had a garage sale and made $140.00 that helped with groceries and gas for a few days, their are also website's that you can list merchandise for free, if you have anything to sell, craigslist, windowslive expo, and my local newspaper online you can have an ad listed for 7 days for free. Believe me I have tried everything to get money for bills and groceries, try donating your plasma I did and received $50.00 the first time that bought me gas for my interviews. Good Luck, This is a great website this is how I found all the jobs I interviewed for....I hope you found a job I felt really worthless and depressed but listening to everyone else on this forums made me realize that I was not alone..

You and thousands of others.

ryan in Austin, Texas said: I have been looking for 3 months and my financial situation is getting critical. My credit cards are maxed and I am out of savings. I keep believing that things will be fine as soon as I get a job which could be any day now. AUGH! What am I supposed to do!

Ryan, do something that you may not want to do to get an income. I know it is difficult to consider working at a fast food restaurant or department store; however, you will bring in some money to help with the financial needs. Also, try some of the more "manly" places like a Good Year, etc. You can keep applying for the ideal job, but in the meantime you can bring monies in to support yourself until then. Good Luck and God Bless You!!!

Ryan Do not be so quick to say tha Restaurant help is not a Manley job.Ihave some Servers who take home $200.00 anite in cash tips.Thats Big money plus $6.00 Hr wages.I have Male servers who also bring this kind of money home.

The secret is..You work for yourself in a Restaurant.Be the customers friend,learn their childrens names, make friends with them, theyll ask for your section. They will leave a nice tip. EVERYTIME THEY COME! Be in business for yourself. Not Manly??? Its on you!

Hang in there! Hopefully, you've found a job by now. Don't be ashamed or embarrassed about how bad things re. None of it is your fault. You can do this. You can dig your way out. Look for support and encouragement around you and stay away from people who make you feel ashamed. Focus on doing the best you can for yourself. There's nothing more you can do anyway. And most importantly, even if you can't find kind and nice people to help you, it's critical to stay away from anyone who's being discouraging and dismissive of your problems.
Best of luck!

I have nearly lost my whole life because of employers that were willing to lie about anything and everything. I decided to finally take my job and life into my own hands. Yep, that's right.. I am starting my own business and those past employers can go straight to hell.

I saw an opportunity to sell an energy drink, cheaper better and lasts longer than the others.. and because this is a job forum I am telling you... stop putting yourself into the position where you have to depend on others for your welfare. Take your job into your own hands. Contact me for more information, I am glad to help you Ryan.

Hello all,

I am a Cisco network engineer that has also been in the business of repairing PCs and fixing machines with Windows problems. Believe it or not, there is NO work doing this anymore. I have applied at EVERY fast food franchise, restaurant, store, etc. Nothing. I am either "overqualified", too old (38), or simply "not suitable." I have a Chemistry degree from a good university--there is STILL nothing. I don't know how I'm going to live past next week. I DO know this though...George Bush should be tried and convicted for what he did to this country, the lives that have been lost due to his poor decisions, the suicides that have resulted from people that were unable to feed their family unless their life insurance paid out, etc. This goes beyond partisan politics--this is CRIMINAL behavior, pure and simple. And guess what--if not for said behavior we wouldn't be on this board!!

PAY ATTENTION AND BE OUTRAGED!!!

DoctorRon

I like many of you on the board have been out of work for months to. I consider myself an educated person with good technical skills and most of my work has been working in Electro Optics for the US Army as a civilian.

This is hopefully the last time anything like this happens to me and others. I like many lost a lot of my personal items to. My auto was taken by the bank and I had to terminate my apartment lease early due to my job loss.I held on as long as I could but eventually the bank account went dry.

I as a middle aged man then had to call my elderly mother and ask if she could take me in, that was embarassing but it was that or end up homeless on the streets and theres no telling what would have happened out there.

I eventually found some work after I moved in with my mother and just by luck she had another car she let me use, I saved up enough cash to purchase a cheap little car and now I have a ride. The job only lasted about 1 month, but I worked 7 days a week 14 hrs a day and made a little cash.

It's been rough going also because I have to deal with the constant calls from collection agencies and they really get on my nerves, but what can you do? I sure hope when Obama takes office and this new stim package of his takes effect, it has unemployment benefits attached to it. Doe's anyone on here know if it will?

My suggestions - in this order: (1) Hopefully, you qualify for unemployment benefits. (2) Apply for food stamps. Individuals can make $1,125 a month; married people about $1,400 a month. (3) Donate your plasma (worth about $150 a month, and is quick money). The pain is quick. (4) Go to your school district website - see if you qualify for substitute teaching work. (5) Get a night parttime, call center, collections. (6) Get a roommate or two. If you have a one bedroom, then drop the lease and move in with someone else. Sleep on an airmattress. (7) Learn to like peanut butter & jelly sandwiches. They are cheap and filling.

Mary inTampa in Tampa, Florida said: My suggestions - in this order: (1) Hopefully, you qualify for unemployment benefits. (2) Apply for food stamps. Individuals can make $1,125 a month; married people about $1,400 a month. (3) Donate your plasma (worth about $150 a month, and is quick money). The pain is quick. (4) Go to your school district website - see if you qualify for substitute teaching work. (5) Get a night parttime, call center, collections. (6) Get a roommate or two. If you have a one bedroom, then drop the lease and move in with someone else. Sleep on an airmattress. (7) Learn to like peanut butter & jelly sandwiches. They are cheap and filling.

Mary in Tampa:

Were you responding to me?

If so,I cannot get food stamps, my mother is on SSI and they said that disqualifies me even though I have no job. They said since she owns the house, she takes care of me and that theres no need to pay me. Don't you love the Gov't?

I Cannot donate plasma either, I have high blood pressure. I can't get a roommate, I stay with my mother. But I do the peanut butter and jelly thing.

I have actually been offered many jobs but due to my limited financial capabilities, I cannot afford to relocate. I also was offered a 6 figure salary to go to Iraq but since I lost my car my credit took a hit and I cannot obtain a security clearance any more.

One good thing about this whole situation is that I have lost a lot of weight, nothing like stress to make the waistline go down. But then again it made my blood pressure go up to.LOL!

Mel in Luray, Virginia said: Mary in Tampa:

Were you responding to me?

If so,I cannot get food stamps, my mother is on SSI and they said that disqualifies me even though I have no job. They said since she owns the house, she takes care of me and that theres no need to pay me. Don't you love the Gov't?

I Cannot donate plasma either, I have high blood pressure. I can't get a roommate, I stay with my mother. But I do the peanut butter and jelly thing.

I have actually been offered many jobs but due to my limited financial capabilities, I cannot afford to relocate. I also was offered a 6 figure salary to go to Iraq but since I lost my car my credit took a hit and I cannot obtain a security clearance any more.

One good thing about this whole situation is that I have lost a lot of weight, nothing like stress to make the waistline go down. But then again it made my blood pressure go up to.LOL!

Mel, Have you ever heard of PartyLite? If you send me an email (dawn.hurst@verizon.net) I can give you more informaton on starting your own successful business with no start up costs. It's not a pyramid or MLM scam, just a proven, legitimate, fun income oportunity.

I was out of work for close to a year. I too ran up my credit cards. I know what you are going through.
Check craigslist for temporary employment or one time event type work. I once found and made $100.00 for being a member on a mock jury.
I made some money & free services as a mystery shopper. check out the website for: Mystery Shopping Providers Association, it has listed legitimate companies who are members on their Association, as well as a job board. And it is true that legitimate companies will not as for any sign up fee.
The US census has started to hiring people.

Lastly to Mel:
About not being able to get food stamps or other assistance because you live with your Mother who is on SSI. I was also in a similar situation. Specify that if your Mother hadn't taken you in that you would be homeless and that while she is allowing you to stay at her house, she is not paying for your food.I had to bring in a signed note from the person that I was staying with that specified this.
Hope that helps!

Good Luck Ryan, I wish you in all sincerity the best!! I took have been taken advantage by employeers. I dont want to go into detail as it will just be like reliving my horrendous ordeal, but I had no choice to leave my employment, and they made damn sure that they fought me on receiving unemployment. My savings are dwendelling and the job market is quiet at the moment. I have been going for jobs that i do not usually do, and for less money, but there are so many in our situation that i dont even get a look in.

I am trying to start my own business too. But it is going to take me sometime to get on my feet as i have to go on a training course, but in the meantime i have to pay bills. Sometimes it seems like such a catch twenty two, you want to better yourself but at risk to yourself. If anyone can give me advice on how i can find an alternative route on getting help with paying rent etc or receiving unemployment i woul be grateful.

Steve said: I have nearly lost my whole life because of employers that were willing to lie about anything and everything. I decided to finally take my job and life into my own hands. Yep, that's right.. I am starting my own business and those past employers can go straight to hell.

I saw an opportunity to sell an energy drink, cheaper better and lasts longer than the others.. and because this is a job forum I am telling you... stop putting yourself into the position where you have to depend on others for your welfare. Take your job into your own hands. Contact me for more information, I am glad to help you Ryan.

bo825 said: Ryan Do not be so quick to say tha Restaurant help is not a Manley job.Ihave some Servers who take home $200.00 anite in cash tips.Thats Big money plus $6.00 Hr wages.I have Male servers who also bring this kind of money home.

The secret is..You work for yourself in a Restaurant.Be the customers friend,learn their childrens names, make friends with them, theyll ask for your section. They will leave a nice tip. EVERYTIME THEY COME! Be in business for yourself. Not Manly??? Its on you!

Yes I have seen plenty at work at home scams and I don't fall fo any. Why should someone pay to get a job? That's funny, but many people fall for it.

mel in Luray, Virginia said: Yes I have seen plenty at work at home scams and I don't fall fo any. Why should someone pay to get a job? That's funny, but many people fall for it.

I can't believe how many people in the year 2009 fall for work scams.

Dawn in Brandon, Florida said: Mel, Have you ever heard of PartyLite? If you send me an email (dawn.hurst@verizon.net) I can give you more informaton on starting your own successful business with no start up costs. It's not a pyramid or MLM scam, just a proven, legitimate, fun income oportunity.

Mel, you may still be able to attain a Clearance, try applying to Government Agencies that will need one. Please rest assure all the Investigators and Polygraphers are not all bad, you may pass the Clearance process. Start with www.intelligence.gov they have tons of Agencies looking for people. Stop feeling sorry for yourself, some will say NO! but you can rest assure someone will say YES! Good Luck!!!!

Mel in Luray, Virginia said: Mary in Tampa:

Were you responding to me?

If so,I cannot get food stamps, my mother is on SSI and they said that disqualifies me even though I have no job. They said since she owns the house, she takes care of me and that theres no need to pay me. Don't you love the Gov't?

I Cannot donate plasma either, I have high blood pressure. I can't get a roommate, I stay with my mother. But I do the peanut butter and jelly thing.

I have actually been offered many jobs but due to my limited financial capabilities, I cannot afford to relocate. I also was offered a 6 figure salary to go to Iraq but since I lost my car my credit took a hit and I cannot obtain a security clearance any more.

One good thing about this whole situation is that I have lost a lot of weight, nothing like stress to make the waistline go down. But then again it made my blood pressure go up to.LOL!

Mel, you may still be able to attain a Clearance, try applying to Government Agencies that will need one. Please rest assure all the Investigators and Polygraphers are not all bad, you may pass the Clearance process. Start with www.intelligence.gov they have tons of Agencies looking for people. Stop feeling sorry for yourself, some will say NO! but you can rest assure someone will say YES! Good Luck!!!!

I lost my job because there was no more jobs coming in to the design business I work for. I am collecting unemployment benefits now and the job search has created no results so far. I decided to start my own business and be responsible for my own destiny (something most of my family and peers have been urging me to do for many years) Does anyone know if I can continue to receive unemployment benefits until I get enough customers to (at least) equal my previous salary....hopefully more :)

amsivert:

You need to check with your unemployment office to get this question answered. It is usually the case that you must disclose all income (even jury duty payments, etc) when you file your weekly claim, which will directly effect your weekly unemployment payout.

Again, it is very important that you ask this question to your unemployment office.

Good luck with your new business! Starting a business is always a little scary, but it sure can be rewarding!

K.C.

KC — I tried after posting. Every option from the many numbers I tried are dead ends. I may try going to an office close by. But I would prefer to be anonymous. Oh well, I'll figure it out, thanks for your reply.

I came across this particular forum as I was searching for a particular job. It never shows up but every now or then I see it in here.
As to the original writer to this forum, I feel your pain as I have been there and done that. If things get to the point where you can not deal with the pressure, file for bankruptcy. I know that's probable not what you want to hear and you don't want to do, but if push comes to shove and you are running out of options, then this is probable your last option.
There are other things you could probable do like work part time, even apply at retail stores just to get the actual cash flows. You would be surprised, there are a lot of these retail stores that are always hiring.

Anyway, I had to respond because your comment hit home with me. Do what you can to earn some extra cash to help pay the bills and if your tipping point is coming at a cross roads, then...you may need to resort to the B word. Let's hope not though.

I have been hearing all kinds of different stories about the new stimulus and some may get a 3rd extension on their benefits for those who have exhausted the 2 already, so I called my unemployment office and at first I got a no then they told me to call back in a couple of weeks which I did and I got a maybe.

That wasn't the answer I was looking for, I got on some law firm unemployment sites that specialize in unemployment law and based on what I saw I don't think there will be a 3rd extension. Of course I could be wrong, who knows?

I have chatted with a lot of people online about this who are out of work to and it's split down the middle...some think there will be a 3rd and others think not. So doe's anyone know actual facts on this instead of hear say?

I hope that there is a 3rd extension because my bank account is bone dry and also I have a medical condition in which I take 5 types of meds and I don't know what I am going to do. if I don't take my meds I will end up in the hospital.

If you look real closely at that stimulus package, there is really very little money being put out. It is a lot of tax options for people. It reminds me a lot of the President Reagan Package - given to the corporations, for the trickle down effect. The trickle down effect really does very little for the immediate needy.

Don't count on a third extension. It if hasn't been mentioned, then it's unlikely. You either find a part time, or see if you can do substitute teaching.

If you have medications, then look for a federal or private program to assist you with getting them.

I have seen and heard so many conflicting stories on a 3rd extension of benefits. I actually chatted with a guy tonight that said he was approved for a 3rd extension, so unless this person is lying to me or kidding around, otherwise that is great news.

He went offline so I emailed him and asked him to give me specifics on this, so I hope he was not yanking my chain, hopefully I will hear from him soon and I'll let you know what happenend.

It was in the Tampa Tribune yesterday that there is a third unemployment deal - 26 weeks of regular and 33 weeks of extension. It was in print in the newspaper.

26 weeks is the regular and the 33 weeks you are talking about is the new one just approved. The one I am talking of is the people that have already had 2 extensions after the initial 26 weeks ran out. One being 13 weeks and the other being 7 weeks.

13 and 7 is 20 weeks. There should be another 13 weeks. All total, there should be 59 weeks of unemployment.

Bankruptcy stays on your credit report for 7 or 8 years.It will be impossible to get loans, mortgages or rent an apartment.Some employers check credit reports as part of the hiring process - although I personally hate this practice even though my credit is ok as of YET.However, for some people, bankruptcy may be an option if all else fails...you have to pick the lesser of the 2 or 3 evils facing you.

The priority is to put food on your table and keep yourself from being homeless.Credit can always be repaired or explained to enough people that someone will accept and deal with it.The world is full of billions of people and they are not all judgmental or callous.Some people here qualify for Medicaid, food stamps and other benefits, if not unemployment.They just need to fight for these benefits and keep going to the agency UNTIL YOU GET A PERSON WHO IS HELPFUL AND ACTUALLY DOES SOMETHING.WE PAY TAXES OUR ENTIRE LIVES AND ABIDE BY THE LAWS.But when we need help, they turn us away? You really have to fight like hell.

This can be a hard time-- a lot of people are unemployed and everybody is looking for new jobs at the same time. I know it can be frustrating, but you just need to keep at it. In the meantime, I found some good advice on how to be productive and make the most of your unemployment period
www.pandalous.com/nodes/how_to_overcome_the

Wishing you all the luck and that you'll get out of unemployment soon.

Every state's unemployment insurance differs slightly. The new extensions and additional surplus being pumped into the state systems may have changed your benefit totals. You can access your state's updated plans at www.10millionpeople.com.

Well I just found out that at least some folks out there will have good news, 3rd extensions of unemployment were granted in some states, from what I have seen some states will have to qualify for a 3rd extension. California got theres and some other states also.

I don't know how long the 3rd extension is but it's better than nothing.

Mary in Tampa, Florida said: 13 and 7 is 20 weeks. There should be another 13 weeks. All total, there should be 59 weeks of unemployment.

Mary from what I saw on another site, the Florida DOL has new updated info on their website concerning extensions. I think I saw the info on about.com

Mel: I just checked the website. Thanks for the info.

I CALLED THE UNEMPLOYMENT OFFICE YESTERDAY AND WAS TOLD THAT ANY ONE WHO HAS ALREADY HAD 2 EXTENTSIONS ARE DONE WITH THEIR BENEFITS AND WILL GET NO MORE MONEY, AND THEY SAID THEY DIDNT EXPECT ANOTHER ONE TO PASS.

the state of florida has the option to obtain additional unemployment funds from the federal gov but of course politics is always at the forefront of these issues,these lawmakers get their paychecks .these are rough times now.

an article i read stated in order for florida to obtain that extended benefits package for the state certain state laws has to change,it also stated that the state could add a clause in there that will allow them to discontinue the program at the end of the year.what seems to be the problem in moving things forward,there are no jobs available,it is getting worse weekly.I have a friend that lost his job after working there for 33yrs,the little bit of money from unemployment do not solve the problem ,nobody wants to be in this situation,these lawmakers and the governor need to think about the unfortunate ones.

I thought I was at the end of my original claim and was moving on to Tier I. My last money from UM was $57.00 on February 6th. I called this week as to why I haven't received anything.

From substitute teaching my total money for February was $900 (gross), and that $57.00. I was told I wasn't getting any UM because I was working full time (32 hours a week a substitute teaching).

He also told me I was at the end of my one year and I needed to refile a claim and I wouldn't get any UM until I refiled. I asked him if they were going to send me a letter telling me that. He said no.

Getting $900 in subbing for February and not being entitled to the other $200 fro Um doesn't make any sense. When my roomie isn't around I will call again. I will let you all know.

For youselves, if you get any part time work and still expect to get UM too, be sure your hours are 30 or less.

Hi, looking for lawyers in NY who had successfully fought unemployment departments. CA UI stopped pay me my UI. thx

ryan in Austin, Texas said: I have been looking for 3 months and my financial situation is getting critical. My credit cards are maxed and I am out of savings. I keep believing that things will be fine as soon as I get a job which could be any day now. AUGH! What am I supposed to do!

You have to cut your own breaks. You cannot rely on others, especially in this economy. Set up multiple streams of income. Think of your talents, interests, and contacts. Plan wisely and make it work.

I use a product from a company that offers a great, legitimate business opportunity. I would use the product regardless of the business opportunity, but earning residual income is a bonus. Everybody is doing well. If you are interested, this is my personal website: www.mineralwaterhealth.com

I wish you the best. Do not be vulnerable to scams. There is no legitimate "get rich quick" program. Again, plan wisely, work hard, and depend on yourself.

ryan in Austin, Texas said: I have been looking for 3 months and my financial situation is getting critical. My credit cards are maxed and I am out of savings. I keep believing that things will be fine as soon as I get a job which could be any day now. AUGH! What am I supposed to do!

This program saved my butt.
I encourage you to take a look at the link below, and become financially free.
I was able to clear my debt in six months.

Gob Bless

JFairhall

mysite.thepeoplesprogram.com/jfairhall/home.php?d=61238

sellyour bootie LOL

DoctorRon in Woodstock, Georgia said: Hello all,

I am a Cisco network engineer that has also been in the business of repairing PCs and fixing machines with Windows problems. Believe it or not, there is NO work doing this anymore. I have applied at EVERY fast food franchise, restaurant, store, etc. Nothing. I am either "overqualified", too old (38), or simply "not suitable." ........

PAY ATTENTION AND BE OUTRAGED!!!

DoctorRon

I am a network support tech (A+/Net+)and I don't even get called by recruiters anymore. There are fifty other guys responding to dispatches for the agencies that do text me. It's really funny to think about, all of us out here unemployed and scrambling for every little laptop repair job or wireless network setup.
I was making decent money at a company doing network support, lost that for no decent reason at the end of 2007, and still haven't gotten more than a few weeks' contract work in IT ever since.
So I lost my car, two apartments i, my wife, and now I'm sleeping on a couch for $275 a month because that's all my unemployment can afford. They took all the little contract jobs at $20 an hour, averaged in all the down time, and determined I am worth $75 a week now.
So I try to get work anywhere, and still get treated like I'm going for a Real Job, because unemployment is so high. I get turned down for all the same reasons, plus the bad credit this situation has caused.

DoctorRon in Woodstock, Georgia said: Hello all,

I am a Cisco network engineer that has also been in the business of repairing PCs and fixing machines with Windows problems. Believe it or not, there is NO work doing this anymore. I have applied at EVERY fast food franchise, restaurant, store, etc. Nothing. I am either "overqualified", too old (38), or simply "not suitable." I have a Chemistry degree from a good university--there is STILL nothing. I don't know how I'm going to live past next week. I DO know this though...George Bush should be tried and convicted for what he did to this country, the lives that have been lost due to his poor decisions, the suicides that have resulted from people that were unable to feed their family unless their life insurance paid out, etc. This goes beyond partisan politics--this is CRIMINAL behavior, pure and simple. And guess what--if not for said behavior we wouldn't be on this board!!

PAY ATTENTION AND BE OUTRAGED!!!

DoctorRon

AMIN, BROTHER

romano in Hollywood, Florida said: AMIN, BROTHER

Romano - you have a degree in chemistry. A Bachelor's?
You may be qualified to teach science in schools.

If Ryan from Austin is still reading this--

"Any day now" could be any day later. Much later. Things will be fine eventually, but in the meantime--and it is a "mean" time, now--don't spend what you don't have to. Cut up your cards. Take a survival job: contrary to what the headlines say, there are jobs out there, it's just a challenge to adjust your expectations so that you can credibly interview for them and win them. I wrote a column on this about "surviving your survival job (and what people say about it)

www.examiner.com/examiner/x-3773-Portland-Unemployment-Examiner~y2009m4d8-Maundy-Thursday-footwashing-an-underemployment-parable

SittinatStarbucks,

I feel your pain. I personally know someone in that same situation. He used to work for HP, but now he's a househusband.

Get out of Starbucks and seek out some neighborhood coffee shops; the "experience" isn't worth what you're paying for. Your despair is palpable and I do get it. As long as you're grieving over your losses--and you've lost a lot!--this is going to be a tough climb.

You're so right about getting treated as if you're going for a Real Job. In their eyes, the jobs are real, and you know they're afraid you'll just up and quit.

Do you have a job search support group that you attend?
How about a spiritual group of any kind? People who care for hurting people?

What would help you get going again? I sense that it isn't "more training," which isn't a panacea anyway. What would give you hope? How can we help?

I have been unemployed for about 7 months now. I am angry and fustrated. I have a bachelors in chemistry but cannot get a job. On a interview, I was told i was too pretty to be a chemist. SIGH...In addition, Marylanders do not like immigrants who are citizens. I am giving up. What else to do but give up.

Getting delayed in not good. If you are waiting for the result of an interview, you are wasting time, better you start part time business that doesn’t need any investment. Online tutoring, real estate consultant, resume writer etc are some good options for you.