Severance and unemployment, do they overlap? (Baltimore)

I was offered severance of 17 weeks after being let go as a customer-service rep and I am unsure how it affects benefits. I do not usually post, so bear with me. The agreement mentions a release and a payment schedule. Who should I ask before signing?

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.