Reply #9: I'm in the same boat [View All]

Our company completed a big merger in January, and I found out last week that my job is gone as part of the synergizing -- it's been handled on a more centralized basis. I've been here 16-1/2 years and next Tuesday is my last day. Luckily, I'm getting a decent severance package and fully paid COBRA through next February. I will be able to do some freelance work for my company and have a likely opportunity that's been in the wings for a while, but not ready to hire me just quite yet. I'll be 61 in August and will start to collect my pension (600-800 per month less than it would have been had I continued to work her another few years) next summer at 62, since waiting to 65 really was of no advantage to me.

My biggest concern will be health insurance once my COBRA runs out, as I'm not sure I'll be able to get it with that new opportunity. Hopefully they'll set up a small group.

Good luck to you, ocd liberal. I feel your pain.