Legal Question in Employment Law in Georgia
Severance package agreement
On Friday, I was informed that I would be let go from my job as part of a round of layoffs. I was given a release and waiver agreement to sign in order to receive my severance package. There is a sentence which reads ''This release of claims does not preclude employee from seeking unemployment insurance benefits under the applicable state law.'' If I sign this agreement, does this mean I can still apply for unemployment benefits?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Severance package agreement
Yes, you can apply, but whether you are awarded benefits is a different issue. Assuming you are simply releasing claims, and NOT resigning employment, and if you receive a DOL separation notice that the reason for your termination is a layoff, then you should be awarded benefits.