OK , so from what you are saying.... Let me throw my scenerio out there. My last day of work is Dec. 4th. I will be getting a serverance pay on Dec. 15th. I can apply for unemployment on Dec. 16th???????
Apply on the 5th. It will ask you about severance. They will decide when you can start receiving benefits. From the time you apply, you'll receive a package in the mail within a couple of days with the decision of if you're eligible and when you can start to receive benefits.
I'm somwhat in this boat, I have not gotten notice or any signs but it is so slow right now and it's just very hard to make my goals, I feel something coming soon...unfortunately. This is such a dark time in society.