What are Hilary Erickson's top tips for surviving unemployment financially?

Find other income sources – Look at skills or hobbies you already have and ask, “How could this make money?” (My blog income was our miracle, but I also actively pushed and networked to grow it.)

Eat your food storage and pantry down to lower grocery costs.

Stick to a written, realistic budget; adjust if income changes, but don’t live in constant fear of “next month.”

Spend a little money to stay connected as a couple (cheap dates or outings) so you can plan and support each other.

Try not to let your kids carry the financial stress; keep key routines and a few “normal” things.

Carefully review health insurance options; individual plans were far cheaper for us than COBRA.

Build savings when you’re employed so you have a cushion if layoffs ever come.