How to Live Without A Job

There are several ways to survive between jobs.

Many people, facing financial challenges after being fired or graduating from school without finding work, are looking for ways to feed and house themselves while unemployed. In the United States, with its recent recession and continuing high jobless rate, many willing would-be workers are striving to make ends meet without steady employment. A number of options are available, and the unemployed who understand them will be better equipped to survive a period of joblessness.

Things You'll Need

• Government-issued identification
• Proof of income

Instructions

1. Apply for unemployment insurance benefits on your first day out of work if you lost your job through no fault of your own. Contact your state unemployment office or visit the Unemployment Insurance website of the U.S. Department of Labor. Benefits vary from state to state; they are often enough to pay your most pressing bills while you're looking for work. You can apply online and, once approved, can start receiving your benefits in a few weeks.

2. Apply for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance (SNAP), which has replaced the food stamps program. This is an option for U.S. citizens and some legal permanent residents. Go to your local SNAP office and pick up an application for an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) debit card. Fill it out, take it to the nearest SNAP office and request an interview date and time. When you go to your appointment, take along your legal identification, such as a driver's license, Social Security card or green card. You'll also need proof of income, like bank statements, pay stubs or tax returns.

3. Find a local soup kitchen and eat your meals there. Remember to ask during what hours the facility serves meals. Arrive early to ensure that you can eat before the food runs out. Offer to help with preparation and clean-up in exchange for anything that may be left over.

4. Locate your local food bank and go there to get essential food and hygiene products. Ask if you can help at the food center for a few more groceries.

5. Ask friends or family members if you can live with them in exchange for house or yard work. Explain your situation. Ask the leaders of your community of faith if they know anyone who would let you live with them in exchange for house or yard work.

6. Sell blood plasma, the yellow part of blood, as often as twice a week to earn extra cash. If you're a healthy adult, you might be able to make enough for food and gas money. Deal only with a licensed clinic and practitioners.

7. Sell or barter your skills. Tutor a child or help an adult learn English in exchange for money or items you need. Ask for odd jobs around the neighborhood. Offer to make the car pool run for a busy mother or father in exchange for cash.

Tips & Warnings

• Swallow your pride and ask for help. People understand what it's like to go through hard times.

• Do not turn to illegal means of gaining money such as drugs and prostitution. You could land in jail and ruin any chances of ever getting a decent job in the future.

References

• United States Department of Labor: Unemployment Insurance
• United States Department of Agriculture; Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program; May 2011
• Donating Plasma.org: Donor Frequently Asked Questions; 2011
• U.S. Army Medical Department; The Plasma Program; June 2009