While you are looking for a new job, it may be a good idea to explore the possibility of receiving temporary public assistance.  Many government programs don't count assets such as cash deposits, 401k, stocks/bonds, etc., and rely solely on household income to determine eligibility.  In Massachusetts, 60% of estimated state median income or $53,608 for a family of 4 is often used as the eligibility threshold.  Families with a working spouse may not qualify for assistance but it's worth trying. 

1. Fuel Assistance, available until 4/30/09 for families with income at or below 60% of estimated state median income. For further information, visit www.mass.gov  Furthermore, different types of energy efficiency programs such as replacement and repair of faulty heating systems and weatherization assistance are also available during the winter months.

2.  Utility assistance such as arrearage forgiveness and discounted rates are available from all major Utility companies, such as Keyspan, NGRID etc.  Most municipal utility companies don't offer these services.  Eligibility is restricted to 60% of state median income.

2 Volunteer Income Tax Assistance or VITA is available during the tax filling season for all those who qualify.  Visit www.irs.gov or www.mass.gov/dor for further information.  Your local town hall and public library can also tell you where to go or may offer volunteer tax assistance.

3. Your local non-profit organizations may offer these and other services.  I don't have a complete list, but you can always google them.  The Secretary of State's office usually keeps a list of all local non-profit corporations.

In many states, you can get information about government programs by just calling 211. Massachusetts has a 211 line.  For other states, feel free to visit:

www.govbenefits.gov

This is from today's Boston Globe.

http://www.boston.com/business/personalfinance/managingyourmoney/archives/2009/03/just_laid_off_g_1.html?p1=Well_MostPop_Emailed3

 Have more questions about the COBRA changes? Chat with Gerald McDonough, general counsel for the Mass. Department of Labor, Monday, March 9, at 11 a.m.