Got severance, how does it affect benefits? - any advice?

My employer is paying severance in instalments and I am not sure whether to file now. There are 4 people counting on me, so I am trying to be careful. I have a mortgage and need to plan. How did your state treat it?

I filed on day one anyway and reported the severance honestly. The agency decided what to do about the timing.

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