A laid-off employee’s honest Reddit post about surviving on Rs 6 lakh savings without a steady source of income has sparked widespread discussion online. Shared on Reddit’s r/FinancialPlanning_Ind subreddit, the user explained that he lost his job in March and has since been relying on severance pay, along with personal savings, to get by.
In the post, titled “I got laid off 2 months ago, have ₹6L in savings, and no income. How do I make this money last while I figure out my next move without destroying my financial future?”, the Redditor opened up about the uncertainty and anxiety of being without a steady income.
“Was laid off in March. Got a decent severance but it’s running out. Total savings including severance is around ₹6L,” the user wrote.
He further explained that he currently does not have any EMIs to pay but spends nearly ₹22,000 every month, including ₹12,000 in rent. Based on his calculations, the savings would give him around six to seven months of financial runway if he spends carefully.
The Redditor also mentioned that although he has been actively applying and interviewing for jobs, the hiring market has remained unpredictable. “Could take 3 months, could take 6,” he wrote, while asking other users whether he should pause his SIPs, liquidate investments or make changes to protect his finances until he secures another job.
“How do I protect what I have without making decisions I’ll regret when I’m back on my feet? Has anyone managed a job loss without completely derailing their finances?” he asked.
The post quickly attracted attention, with several users offering practical and emotional advice.
One user commented, “Cut down all unnecessary expenses, subscriptions, etc. Food, Roof and Healthcare should be the priority. Pause investments but don’t liquidate unless you are in need of cash. Invest money in finding new job. Upskilling, etc.”
Another user pointed out a possible miscalculation in the Redditor’s estimate, writing, “34k expenses and 6l capital is close to 2 years of runway not 6 months?”
A third advised the laid-off employee to move his money into safer investment options while looking for additional sources of income. “You should put your money in Liquid fund(Very safe) that will fetch 6-7% interest and you can withdraw monthly from there. this way you can optimize your capital safe and earning interest. Also opt for part time freelance/gig work as well,” the comment read.
Some users also suggested aggressively reducing monthly expenses. “Make a FD of 4 L (1 L every month) for 1 year! Try to get a cheap rental! Reduce 22k expenses to 10-12 max! May God provide what you need!” another Redditor wrote.
A different user encouraged the individual to focus on job hunting and skill-building instead of panicking over savings. “With 35k approx monthly expenses and you having 6L – you have a good 1yr+ runway!! Cut down unnecessary expenses – RULE NUMBER #1. Upskill and find a job ASAP – Simple!” the comment said.
Another user cautioned the Redditor about continuing SIP deductions without maintaining sufficient account balance. “SIPs should be paused. I think if you don’t maintain any balance in account when sip is deducting, i guess they will charge you a fine.
So yeah be careful. Also buy rice, oil, wheat and other food items and other essentials in bulk. Don’t eat outside frequently. If you have bad habits like drilling and smoking then you need to pause and start them once you get a job,” the user advised.