Does severance delay my unemployment claim? after 17 years as a teaching assistant

I was offered severance of 17 weeks after being let go as a teaching assistant and I am unsure how it affects benefits. I do not usually post, so bear with me. I have a mortgage and need to plan. Did you file straight away?

Before signing, I asked a friend who is a lawyer to look at the agreement. It was a short conversation and worth it.