It’s not something anyone wants to think about, but it can happen to anyone. After you lose your job in Colorado, it takes about four to six weeks for unemployment insurance to begin, but the process may take much longer. That happened to Allan Lally of Englewood. He lost his job and it took him more than seven weeks to receive his first payment. He even reached out to his state representative Democrat Meg Froelich - who says there are many reasons why you should contact your representatives in government when you need assistance with government agencies. Financial advisor Bruce Alan also joins the show, with tips to prepare yourself before you lose your job, including how much of a safety cushion to have in reserves.  

RealTalk is hosted by Colorado Public Radio’s Nathan Fernando-Frescas and Denver 7’s Micah Smith.