Unemployment Benefits (UCFE)
Federal workers are eligible for unemployment through the UCFE program — nearly identical to private-sector benefits. Apply with the state where your duty station was located. Benefits typically arrive within 2–3 weeks.
How to apply →MSPB Appeals
Career employees with 1+ year of service can appeal terminations to the Merit Systems Protection Board. The 30-day filing deadline is strict — don't miss it. Appeals are spiking 2,100% as workers challenge DOGE firings.
Appeal guide →Severance Pay
Most DOGE layoffs don't include severance — but RIF (Reduction in Force) procedures may entitle career employees to severance based on years of service. Probationary employees generally receive no severance.
Check eligibility →FERS Pension Protections
A RIF doesn't erase your pension if you're vested. FERS employees with 5+ years may qualify for a deferred annuity. Immediate retirement eligibility depends on age and years of service. Talk to a FERS specialist before making any irreversible decisions.
Free pension review →FEHB Health Insurance
Your Federal Employees Health Benefits coverage continues for 31 days after separation — at no cost. After that, you can convert to COBRA-equivalent coverage. Losing federal insurance mid-year qualifies you for ACA marketplace special enrollment.
Coverage options →Class Action & Union Rights
Multiple class actions challenging DOGE layoffs are active. If your agency union filed a grievance, you may be covered. Even non-union workers can benefit from class rulings. Several lawsuits have already resulted in reinstatements.
Find active cases →The DOGE Federal Workforce Timeline
Trump Strips Protections from Thousands
Executive order removes civil service protections from "Schedule F" employees, exposing thousands to at-will termination.
Deferred Resignation Offer
OPM emails 2.3 million workers with a "fork in the road" — accept buyout or return to office. ~75,000 accept. Courts later rule it invalid for many workers.
Mass Probationary Firings Begin
Agencies directed to dismiss probationary employees. VA, NOAA, FAA, CDC among hardest hit. Multiple lawsuits filed immediately.
Supreme Court Clears Path for Cuts
Supreme Court overrides lower court freeze orders, allowing the workforce reductions to proceed. MSPB appeal filings spike 2,100%.
317,000 Workers Gone
OPM estimates 317,000 federal employees are now separated — the largest reduction in the federal workforce since World War II.
New Wave of RIFs Underway
A new round of formal Reductions in Force announced. Legal challenges ongoing. Workers in limbo between reinstatement orders and new termination notices.
How to Appeal Your DOGE Firing
Career employees with 1+ year of service have strong appeal rights. Here's the process, step by step.