Reply #5: I can't say for Florida...

[jtb33]

But when I was unemployed in AZ, the unempl. insurance was for 12 months (my severance package was based on 4 months of my income).

As for your other question, I think it depends on what YOU want to do and how you feel about the options you have. IMO, one of the more important things is: how old are you? Obviously, if you were just starting out in your line of work, a career change wouldn't hurt your income potential as much. However, if you're 40 (for example), are you willing to start over again at the "bottom of the ladder" (so to speak) in your new vocation? On the other hand, if you go back to school for additional training (will you get a degree, or just take classes?), you may qualify for grants (like the Pell).

Sorry, just rambling here...