I used ChatGPT to help structure this because my brain is fried trying to think it through properly.
I’ve been with the same company for 17 years and worked across different areas, which is why I’m on about $145k remuneration now. Realistically, if I leave, I’d probably land somewhere between $85k–$100k unless I step into something much more senior (and more demanding).
I’ve been made redundant but I’ve started a new fixed term role , so I’ve got about 8 months to figure things out.
My options:
1. Stay
Try to land another permanent role internally and keep a high salary
Risk is I don’t find something and end up out anyway
2. Take the payout (~$150k after tax)
Nice buffer and a reset
But likely taking a decent pay cut in my next role
Also - Current mortgage is 400k , adding 150k to offset would be magical BUT only if I did not touch any cent of the 150k and lined up a role right away with min 100k earning.
Part of why I’m paid well is just moving around internally over time, so I don’t think I’d get the same externally without grinding a lot harder.
What would you do in my position?