Question: I was informed my job was being eliminated on August 18 and my last day at work is September 18. The reason was due to budget issues. I have not been offered severance, and I have not been able to find a new job, either.

How can I ask for severance? I need some advice or a sample letter to draft. I have nothing to lose at this point, and would love some professional advice on possibly negotiating a severance package.

Sarah, from Atlanta, GA
(All names are changed)

Answer: There is so much to say, I’ve written an entire book about it: “Fired, Downsized, or Laid Off – What Your Employer Does Not Want You to Know About How to Fight Back.” (Henry Holt Publishers, 2000) It’s an easy read, and costs only about $15. It’s the most popular book on the topic. You can purchase it (new or used) on Amazon.com, or on our Blogsite. See “Self-Help Materials” on our Blogsite homepage.

Best, Al Sklover