my husband just lost his job this week ... after 18 years with this company. downsized.

[nobodyspecial]

34. Oh, I'm sorry if my post made it sound like you/your husband personally would lie

I really didn't think or mean that.

And, yes, you have to wait for any compensation package to expire before you can collect, even if you get a lump sum. For example, if you got a lump sum for 4 weeks used vacation time, UE office prorates it based on your wages and you can't start collecting until that four weeks is over, even though you got that last paycheck a month ago.

Yes, you should make sure he has enough to carry you through the surgery and generous recovery. He can file now, though, so they get the claim approved and lined up. If there is a gap between his severance and the surgery, he would be able to collect and then they would suspend his payments until he got medical clearance.

Even if you can't afford a lawyer to fight it, definitely make sure the company knows you have hired one to review and negotiate and be vague about how far you are willing to go. They may be more accommodating if they fear a lawsuit.

Unfortunately, I know all too much about this topic from personal experience. It's hard and scary as hell, but you'll make it through.