Ever gotten that sudden email from HR and felt your stomach drop? Being furloughed isn’t quite the same as being laid off, but it can still feel like a financial and emotional jolt. So, what does it mean to be furloughed, and how does it really affect your life and paycheck? Let’s break it down. Furlough 101: The Basics A furlough is essentially a temporary leave of absence from your job, usually initiated by your employer. Unlike a layoff, you aren’t being permanently let go—you’re still technically employed. Employment status: You remain an employee, which often means you keep certain benefits like health insurance. Pay: In many cases, furloughed workers do not get paid, though some companies may offer partial pay. Duration: Furloughs can last from a few days to several months depending on the company’s needs. Reason: Employers may furlough staff to save costs during economic downturns, seasonal slow periods, or unexpected crises. Think of it as hitting the “paus...