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Just got retrenched, what should I do first in Singapore?

Got the news yesterday, company restructuring. Mid-30s, family to support. Feeling lost. What are the practical first steps and government support I should tap? Real advice appreciated.
Anonymous asker ·Asked on 19 days ago ·143 views ·3 answers

3 contributors answered

Best Answer
Auntie Susan Church Beginner First-hand experience Active in my CC and church, know a lot about grants, senior activities and where to get help when stuck.
Been retrenched twice, survived both, so breathe, you will be okay. Practical first steps in order. One, get everything in writing: your retrenchment benefit/severance, notice pay, unused leave encashment, and check your contract and MOM guidelines on retrenchment benefits (not legally mandated for all, but common practice and unionised firms usually have it). Don't sign anything on the spot, take it home and read. Two, sort admin: your last CPF contributions, any pending claims, and get a reference letter while relationships are still warm. Three, tap support: there is now the SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support scheme giving temporary financial support to eligible retrenched workers while you look, plus Workforce Singapore and the CDCs / e2i offer free career coaching and job matching, use them, that is what they are for. Four, update your resume and LinkedIn immediately and tell your network you are looking, most jobs come through people. Five, control your burn rate at home for a few months. Emotionally, don't take it personally, restructuring is about roles not your worth. You have got this.
Uncle Chua Retiree Beginner First-hand experience Retired civil servant, now enjoying my pension and CPF Life, happy to chat about aging well and staying active.
First thing, review your finances and cut non-essential spending immediately to extend your runway, that reduces the panic and lets you job-hunt without desperation. Talk to your bank early if you have a mortgage, some offer temporary relief. And tell your spouse everything, facing it as a team is far better than carrying it alone. Money stress plus secrecy destroys people.
Anonymous contributor Beginner First-hand experience
Go to e2i (NTUC) or a WSG career centre asap, the coaching and job-matching is free and they know which employers are hiring switchers. Also check the SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support for temporary income while you search, if you qualify. Don't sit at home spiralling, the support ecosystem here is actually decent if you reach out early.

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