Today, do these three things

1. 1

   You do not have to sign anything today

   Many people say or write: "I understand. I would like to review this before signing anything." That sentence is complete. No further explanation is owed, and asking for time to review is a normal request.

   California gives you at least five business days to consider a separation agreement and consult a lawyer. If you are 40 or over, federal law gives you 21 days, or 45 in a group layoff, plus 7 days to change your mind after signing.

2. 2

   Download your documents before your access ends

   This is the step people regret skipping, and the window is often hours. Save the agreement, anything you ever signed, your pay statements, your benefits summary and your equity details to personal storage.

   The four-minute download list
3. 3

   Write down four dates

   Your separation date. When final pay arrives. When health coverage ends. The deadline printed on the agreement. Put all four in your calendar now, while the document is still in front of you.

   Every other deadline

Where are you?

Pick the one that matches, and go straight there.