Whether it's by your choice or someone else's, being out of work can be financially challenging in more ways than one. However, there are some steps you can take to help you through the uncertainty and the sooner you get started the better.

A practice that many financial planners recommend is that you have at least 6 months worth of living expenses in savings. This can help buffer you until you find a new job. Some people add up their basics: utilities, car loans, mortgage or rent payments but forget to factor in credit cards. Even if you're not carrying a balance now, go back over your statements and figure out an average monthly payment. Multiply it by 6 and deposit it into your rainy day fund.

If you do find yourself suddenly unemployed, here are some additional things to think about. Resist the temptation to put everything on credit cards so you can keep cash in your accounts.

Instead, revisit your budget and figure out what your obligations are. If you're worried about being able to meet your credit card payments until you find a new job, be pre-emptive with the issuer. Talk to them and you may be able to make alternative payment arrangements.

Do anything you can to make your minimum payments on all of your credit cards. A balance transfer might be helpful since you can lower your interest rates for a time.

Finally, if you do find yourself unable to make minimums, call your credit card issuer.