thanks guys. I spoke to a coworker who gave me the ph# of the HR person in our Corporate Headquarters and it was confirmed that severance would be paid up to the agreed dollar amount unless I am rehired before that happens, at which time severance payments would end. Collecting unemployment would not affect my severance payments either. The good: I have a $1200 check coming via severance, and a $360 check from unemployment and I have a definite position awaiting me, with the possibility of another more desirable position becoming available. The bad: I gotta relocate to take advantage of either of those positions, which presents a few hurdles. But i'm optimistic that I can make it happen..............