@hqxr, you sound like you want to stay in. Despite most of the negatives, so did I and when they called my number in 2016, I called on all my resources, longtime contacts and networked like crazy and made it back. As we are similar ages, most posters don’t understand the ‘age discrimination ceiling’ that faces the 55’s and over, one day they may.
The irony is that ‘some’ Millenials are calling for us to make room for them. On the outside, of AT&T, the potential employer (for us) all things, all skills being equal, will take the Millennial over you or I because of longevity....we would give them 6-7 years at best, health allowing....it’s just the way it is! The Millennial, through no fault of their own, are part of the reason we wish to stay in, the competition on the outside to gain employment, are the people that can give a company 25-35 years of service.
Put your list of questions together for HR for what applies (Pension, 401K, Severance pkg) and don’t rule out the ability to reapply to come back in....it does happen, but HR needs to tell you when that waiting period ends, from what I heard, six months, same amount of time as the Severance pkg. but from what point, when you receive the severance or your last day.....ask questions, record the conversation.
Ask if you can “Bridge” your Pension to age 65, I was told I could. By leaving it in place I would take it at full benefit....but, I plan to take it as a monthly Annuity, not a lump sum.
Good luck