These are the things to do immediately when you leave a job -- in addition to anything you didn't do before leaving (listed under "What to do before you leave a job").
- Review your personnel file -- ask for a copy immediately. Sometimes employers only keep files for a short period of time after you leave.
- File for unemployment.
- Get your final paycheck. Many bosses don't like to pay the last check, even though you worked the hours. Make sure that nothing is taken out of the check that shouldn't be.
- Get paid for any accrued benefit time you are owed.
- Decide what to do with any retirement money.
- Ask for a service letter that will summarize your work-history. Some states have laws that an employer has to give workers a service letter that summarizes your work history.
- Figure out how to get health insurance. If you got health insurance from your job, there are some possible ways to get coverage. Ask for a certificate of health coverage when your insurance ends (you may need it to get new insurance).
- Were you just about to vest in the pension? If you are laid off or fired just before vesting in a pension, you should talk to a lawyer to see if there is a way to negotiate or pressure your company to protect your pension rights.