Separation is hard, here are a few tips from my experience. If you know Schlumberger families, then you will know who I am. Feel free to reach out in LinkedIn! (Tip for HR: Please consider putting a similar checklist up front in the paperwork.) Also, everyone, check your own humanity during this process.
1) sign the COBRA paperwork and send it before anything else, you can sign before paying. Otherwise you'll have a short gap in health coverage and will have to deal with Cigna to get reimbursed;
2) Use the professional career coaching services fully before time runs out, these are good services which can help you to polish your CV and social media profiles;
3) Do your personal budget first before spending any severance. I mean this, just do it. Right now.
4) Apply for unemployment right away, it takes about six weeks to get first check. Keep a continuous search log with companies and people contacted, for your unemployment paperwork;
5) Do the COBRA, just plan to pay it in your budget for as long as you can. Finding a good replacement healthcare plan will be hard. Update ALL your health needs now. Spend the money to get your dental work done - this is your health and the health of your family, and you need to feel great and be healthy.
6) Cut yourself a break, slow down and enjoy this time. Everyone is different, but there will def be a bruised feeling and you'll need some time to reset. Opportunities are everywhere. It will be OK.