Layoff Runway Calculator
Enter your numbers below to find out exactly how many months you have before you must find income. No fluff — just honest math on your financial situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much savings do I need after a layoff?
Financial advisors recommend 3–6 months of living expenses as an emergency fund. After an AI-driven layoff, however, the job search timeline is often longer — 6–12 months is realistic in highly automated industries. Your specific runway is savings ÷ monthly burn rate (expenses minus income and benefits).
What counts as liquid savings?
Liquid savings are funds you can access immediately without penalty: checking accounts, savings accounts, and money market accounts. Do not include 401(k) or IRA balances — early withdrawal incurs a 10% penalty plus income tax. HSA funds used for non-medical expenses also face penalties.
How long does unemployment insurance last?
Standard unemployment insurance in most U.S. states lasts 26 weeks (about 6 months). The average weekly benefit is $400–$450, roughly $1,700–$1,950/month, though it varies by state and prior income. Some states offer as little as 12 weeks. Apply within the first week of job loss — there is typically a 1–2 week waiting period before payments begin.