Got severance, how does it affect benefits? (Spokane)

I was offered severance of 17 weeks after being let go as a medical assistant and I am unsure how it affects benefits. I also wonder about the job-search requirement. 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.

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