DC Unemployment and Federal Severance

[Anonymous]

I was RIFed from a federal job (fully separated). I was told by the agency I will receive severance payments sometime after my last paycheck, but I don't know when or how much.

In DC specifically, should I apply for unemployment now? or wait until severance is clear, and apply when it runs out? Maryland has wonderful guidance explaining this, but DC does not. https://labor.maryland.gov/employment/uifedseverancepay.shtml

TBH, I want someone to tell me what to do do because I am hitting a wall dealing with everything (health insurance, student loans, life insurance, retirement, cutting costs, job applications). I know I should figure it out myself, sorry for the stupid question. Please help anyway.

[Anonymous]

Take DC unemployment now, but don't spend a dime. Funds saved while you're taking severance and unemployment should only be spent when both DC employment insurance and your severance are exhausted (or you have a new job--may it happen soon!).

[Anonymous]

Thank you, kind person!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Take DC unemployment now, but don't spend a dime. Funds saved while you're taking severance and unemployment should only be spent when both DC employment insurance and your severance are exhausted (or you have a new job--may it happen soon!).

Great advice.

[Anonymous]

Here is the link for DC: https://does.dc.gov/service/federal-government-employees-frequently-asked-questions

Unemployment is for after your severance period ends. That’s pretty universal regardless of who your employer is.