My release date was Feb 16. I was given 13 week severance package. Must I file unemployment now or after 13 weeks.

Q) My release date was Feb 16, 2018 for lack of work. I was given a severance package for 13 weeks. Must I file for benefits or do I wait the 13 weeks before contacting my local office? Please advise.

A) You can file for unemployment benefits while you are receiving severance pay. However, the amount of benefits you receive may be reduced by the amount of severance pay you are receiving.

To be eligible for unemployment benefits, you must meet certain requirements, such as:

• You must have been employed in the state where you are filing for benefits.
• You must have been laid off through no fault of your own.
• You must be able to work and available for work.
• You must be able to look for work.

If you are unsure whether you are eligible for unemployment benefits, you should contact your state’s unemployment office.

Here are some things to keep in mind about unemployment benefits and severance pay:

• The amount of benefits you receive may be reduced by the amount of severance pay you are receiving.
• You may have to meet additional requirements, such as completing a job search or attending job training.
• You may not be eligible for benefits if you have other sources of income, such as Social Security or a pension.

If you are unsure about whether or not you are eligible for unemployment benefits, you should contact your state’s unemployment office.