Most of the lay-offs (terminations really as lay-offs imply a return to the same job) that we've been reading about are only PLANNED. It is not until those folks are actually terminated AND finish collecting any severance benefits that they can claim UE benefits.
Not necessarily - depends on the state. I collected a 3 month severance that was paid out in bi-weekly installments just as I would have received as a paycheck and was still allowed to file for UE. After a waiting week, I was able to collect. We were thankful and were able to bank $$ as I knew in this area that jobs are very hard to come by. After countless resumes and interviews I am now working part time, volunteering and networking as I just cannot stand to be home doing nothing. Good paying, full time jobs are not easy to come by.