Rising unemployment throughout the state of Ohio and the nation has put a new group of homeowners at risk of falling behind on their mortgages. If you are recently unemployed, consider taking the following steps to keep your finances in check while looking for another job.

What To Do If You Have Lost Your Job Adapted from Ohio Treasurer of State's Unemployment Action Plan
	Register for Unemployment Compensation: Call 877-644-6562 or TTY at 888-642-8203 or register online at www.unemployment.ohio.gov.
	Make a Budget that fits your new financial situation. First, list all of your expenses, including fixed expenses, such as mortgage and rent, and future expenses such as property taxes and income taxes. Cut out or cut back on unnecessary expenses. Find ways to save money on your necessary expenses, such as groceries, bills, and transportation costs. Clip coupons and purchase store brands to save money on groceries. Talk to your utility company about money-saving payment plans. Take public transportation or carpool to save money on gas. For help building a budget, visit the Your Money section of the Ohio Mortgage Help Workshop or try this Budget Builder Tool from the Beehive. For money saving ideas, check out www.FeedthePig.org.
	Notify your Creditors BEFORE You Fall Behind. First, make a list of your bills and put them in order of importance. Mortgage or rent, car payments and utilities should be at the top of the list. For each creditor on your list, write down the name, address and phone number of the contact person, account number, total amount due, payment date and interest rate. Then contact each creditor to let them know about your change in income. They may have a plan to work with you while you look for a job. Mortgage: Contact your lender's loss mitigation department Rent Payments: Contact your landlord Student Loans: Contact your lender for a deferment or forbearance during a period of unemployment Car Payments: Contact your lender
	Keep your Health Insurance. If you had health insurance before losing your job, you should be able to buy COBRA insurance. COBRA stands for the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, which allows some employees temporary continuation of health coverage at group rates. You can also visit www.insurance.ohio.gov to learn more about coverage options available to you. Although paying for health insurance out-of-pocket can be expensive, paying for unexpected medical expenses can be even more costly.
	Find a New Job. Ohio offers a wealth of information on job opportunities and career training. OhioMeansJobs.com gives jobs seekers the opportunity to post their resume and search for open positions One-Stops help job seekers write strong resumes, search for jobs, prepare for job interviews, and access career training. Ohio's Rapid Response Section provides a range of services to workers being laid off.