Can I receive unemployment benefits if I am receiving severance pay?
In Hawaii, an individual may still qualify for unemployment benefits while receiving severance pay, but there are specific considerations to keep in mind. The Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations indicates that severance payments are generally treated as income during the unemployment benefit eligibility assessment. As a result, if the severance pay is received in a lump sum or as a continuation of pay for a certain period, it could potentially affect the amount of unemployment benefits one might receive. The key factor is whether the severance pay is designated for a specific period of time or a one-time payment.
It is advisable for individuals to report any severance pay to the unemployment office when filing for benefits. They should disclose the amount and timing of the severance pay in order to ensure full compliance with state regulations. For precise guidance tailored to individual circumstances, one may want to check the current information available on the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website. There, one can also find resources that clarify how severance pay influences unemployment benefits.

Answered Jun 30, 2025
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