Does severance delay my unemployment claim? after 7 years as an electrician's helper

I was offered severance of 7 weeks after being let go as an electrician's helper and I am unsure how it affects benefits. I have a mortgage and need to plan. Who should I ask before signing?

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

Rules differ by state. I called the claims line and asked directly, then wrote down the answer and the date.