A new law for unemployment in Wisconsin?

Can I collect unemployment benefits and severence pay at the same time in Wisconsin?

• I am already receiving unemployment benefits and just received one yr. severance in a lump sum. The company says it will not contest unemployment due to workforce reduction and says it depends on the state. The Wisconsin unemployment office says it depends on the company and how it is allocated. The lump sum is being paid at the same time other employees are receiving their bi-weekly paychecks. One person at wi unemployment office says to answer no when asked if receiving "dismissal pay" another said answer no. Do not want a big fiasco if answer incorrectly and then have to pay back at later date. Thank you!

• Answer:

  If I were you, I would apply for the unemployment benefits and then put every single penny into an interest bearing account. Don't spend it. Live off of your severance pay and look for another job. If they demand the money back (which is likely if you received a year's salary), you will be entitled to keep the interest earned on the money. And if they don't demand the money back you will have established yourself a rainy day fund.