This marks the first offer of this kind in a telecommunications company, however auto companies originated the lay-off payment program. Companies like Ford, Hyundai, and GM have all offered payment programs for those unable to make their payments due to layoffs.  

Stellar Holdings, a Seattle-based condominium developer, also provides a layoff payment plan. Should any property-owner of one year or more become unemployed, Stellar Holdings will pay monthly mortgage payments for up to six months. 

Though these plans may seem like a fool-proof plan, especially if you are wary of your future job security, Smart Money suggests researching all other options as well when buying any big-ticket item. Maybe you need a new car and purchasing a vehicle with one of these plans tagged to it sounds like a sturdy investment. Think again; as simply buying an older, used car might be a better, and more financially-savvy, deal in the long run. 

Likewise with cell phone and mortgage plans. Consider the best overall option for your budget, rather than a glitsy plan that may, or may not, help you out for a brief period of time.

With over 65,000 people employed every year in the Alaskan fishing industry, newcomers have a great shot at getting a high-paying job in a short season on an Alaskan fishing boat.

Work hours generally range from 12 to 16 hours a day, up to seven days a week. Typically processors (performing repetitive tasks, like gutting salmon) make $750 to $1,500 a week. Fishermen earn around $1,000 to $2,500 a week, sometimes more.

Processing jobs are the easiest to get, as some of the tasks are considered undesirable. Usually no experience is required, but long hours and working in factories is usually required of all new processors. These jobs are a good way to break-into the Alaskan fishing industry for those who aspire to work on a fishing boat as a harvester, or fisherman.

Besides the pay, many employers in the industry also offer free room and board and free round-trip airfare from the point of hire (usually Seattle, WA) to Alaska.

Most of these positions are contractual, lasting from one to four months, with the standard being three.