Can I get Unemployment Benefits in California even if I received a severance?
Sorry to hear you were laid off. Yes, most states do take into account any financial assistance your company is providing in the form of severance, vacation pay out or other financial arrangements. Depending on the amount, you may only receive a reduced benefit. The philosophy behind this is that unemployment taxes are paid for by your employers in the state you live in so if your company is already contributing to you landing back on your feet through a severance the state considers that aid when it makes its decision. It is also to save those tax dollars for people less fortunate than you. Even so, you should still apply for the benefits since it is your right to do so. Please call or check your state’s unemployment website for concrete details.
