Got severance, how does it affect benefits? after 12 years as a bookkeeper

I was offered severance of 12 weeks after being let go as a bookkeeper and I am unsure how it affects benefits. I am in Memphis, in case local advice matters. I also wonder about the job-search requirement. How did your state treat it?

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

Keep everything in writing and save the confirmation numbers. It saved me later.