No issue with HR through the process, although after losing the access, support for specific inquiries was really limited - sometimes frustrating (especially as it related to financial-related documentation). They didn't take calls, and/or didn't get back on voicemails. They rarely replied to emails as well. The HP Alumni checklist is really good, so follow it step by step.
I wasn't prepared financially to a layoff (zero savings... I know... I know...), so I had to juggle big time with a few bucks, and unemployment and welfare benefits until I got my liquidation. I moved fast to request the assistance, so I got "survival money" available after my last check from HP. I also quickly initiated a cash out of my 401K and pension plan (which was not that much), which I got around 2 months after my last day. I didn't want to impact my credit, so I kept my bills paid on time, but that basically left me out of any savings quickly.
My job search strategy was pretty aggressive. I should have easily applied to more than 1,000 jobs through aggregators, and I can say that at least that the phone screenings and interviews kept me busy and gave me some sanity during the stressful time. I was out of the job for around 6 months, and those have been the longest of my entire life. I got to the final interview stages for several positions, with no job offer at the end, which was extremely frustrating and weakened my spirit. I was extremely lucky to have all the patience and support of my wife through the whole process. I was so desperate... I just wanted a job (regardless of the pay), and then see how I could move to something more aligned to what I needed financially. Location was not important. I would have taken a job anywhere.
It wasn't until I changed my search strategy that things really progressed. I was too focused on searching jobs over the internet by mass applying, as well as on a W2-regular, full time job, that missed plenty of opportunities on temp/consulting jobs. I got an independent, project-focused consulting job from an Agency (a two months gig), and during that time I got a tremendous help from a headhunter, which was able to help me get a job in a different State (but with excellent relocation benefits), with a salary around 80% of what I was making at HP. I know the headhunter made good money for positioning me, but I can definitively say that he earned every penny of the time he spent on me (and wish him lots of blessings, wherever he is now).
I still haven't been able to stabilize financially (my credit eventually got screwed up), but I have a job, a roof, and food on the table each night for my family. I'm not sure how things will continue to evolve, but I have faith that miracles will continue to occur in my life. I'm not sure this would be a good testimony to post in here - as I wouldn't call it a "success" story -, but yes, there is life after HP. For some it takes more time and challenges, but little by little things will be falling in place. God bless you all, and my best wishes of luck moving forward.