Fired by DOGE? Here's Exactly What to Do in the First 30 Days

The First 24 Hours: Stop and Document Everything

Before anything else, your immediate priority is evidence collection. Once you've separated from federal service, you'll need documentation to support any future claims, appeals, or legal actions.

What to do today:

1. Save your RIF notice and separation letter. Store physical and digital copies in multiple places. This is your primary evidence.
2. Request your Official Personnel File (OPF). Contact your agency's HR or Records office and request a complete copy immediately. This can take 2-4 weeks.
3. Document the RIF decision. Take screenshots or photos of any emails, notices, or communications related to your layoff.
4. Write down what happened. While it's fresh, document the dates, people involved, and exact circumstances of your separation.
5. Collect contact information. Get names and contact info for witnesses, coworkers, supervisors—anyone who can verify your employment record.

Days 1-7: File for Unemployment Immediately

Federal workers separated involuntarily are eligible for Unemployment Compensation for Federal Employees (UCFE). This is not regular state unemployment—it's a federal program specifically for people like you.

What to expect: UCFE typically pays 50% of your average salary, up to a state maximum (usually $400-600/week), for 13 weeks. You may be eligible for extended benefits depending on economic conditions.

Days 7-14: Assess Your Appeal Rights Under MSPB

Not all federal employees can appeal at the Merit Systems Protection Board, but many can. Understanding your eligibility is critical—you have only 30 days from your effective date of separation to file an appeal.

You can appeal if:

• You are or were a career or career-conditional employee (not a term appointee or at-will position)
• You have completed at least one year of federal service
• You were separated involuntarily (RIF, not voluntary resignation)

If you qualify: An MSPB appeal gives you the right to challenge the RIF decision itself. The burden shifts to your agency to prove the RIF was proper. This is a powerful protection, but the 30-day deadline is absolute.

If you don't qualify: You may still have other remedies. Consult with an employment attorney to explore discrimination claims, whistleblower protections, or other legal avenues.

Days 14-21: Health Insurance—Act Before Coverage Ends

Your FEHB (Federal Employees Health Benefits) coverage typically ends on the last day of the month in which you were separated. You have 31 days from the date your coverage ends to elect Temporary Continuation of Coverage (TCC) or find alternative coverage.

Your options:

1. TCC (Temporary Continuation of Coverage): Continue your FEHB plan for up to 18 months. Premium costs typically increase by 2%, but coverage continues. Enroll within 31 days of separation.
2. ACA Marketplace: You qualify for a special enrollment period and may be eligible for subsidies based on your new income level.
3. Spouse's plan: If applicable, you may have a qualifying life event to enroll in a spouse's employer plan.

Do not let your health insurance lapse. The cost of bridge coverage far exceeds the cost of TCC or marketplace plans.

Days 21-30: Consult an Attorney and Monitor Class Actions

The DOGE layoffs have triggered numerous lawsuits and class action cases challenging various aspects of these RIFs. An employment attorney can advise you on whether you have standing in any pending cases and protect your legal interests.

Why hire an employment attorney now:

• Evaluate your MSPB appeal strength (deadline is approaching)
• Assess discrimination or whistleblower claims
• Review separation package terms if offered
• Advise on pension and TSP decisions
• Identify applicable class actions and ensure you're included

Many federal employment attorneys offer free initial consultations and work on contingency for certain cases.

Days 30: Consolidate Your Financial Position

Retirement account decisions:

If you're eligible for a FERS pension or have a TSP account, do not make irreversible decisions yet. Understand your options:

• FERS vesting: If you have 5+ years, you're vested. You can elect an immediate annuity or wait until your Minimum Retirement Age.
• TSP: Do not roll this into an IRA without advice. Certain TSP protections (Roth treatment, loan options) may be lost.

Get professional advice before making any pension elections. One wrong move could cost you tens of thousands of dollars.

Beyond Day 30: Stay Organized and Advocate

You've handled the crisis. Now maintain a sustainable approach:

• Set calendar reminders for all deadlines (unemployment recertification, TCC renewals, MSPB hearings)
• Keep all communications with your agency, unemployment office, and attorney in one organized file
• Report any suspicious class action lawsuits to the FTC
• Connect with other affected federal workers—many find strength and information through community

Key Takeaways

The first 30 days after a DOGE layoff are overwhelming, but you have more protections and options than you may realize. Immediate action on unemployment, documentation, appeals eligibility, and health insurance sets you up for success. An employment attorney experienced in federal personnel law is not a luxury—it's an investment in protecting your rights and your future.