Unemployment Benefit (US)
Estimate your US unemployment insurance weekly benefit amount based on your highest quarter wages and state maximum benefit. Free online UI benefits calculator.
About This Calculator
The Unemployment Benefit Calculator (US) helps you estimate your weekly unemployment insurance (UI) benefit amount based on your prior earnings and your state's rules. This calculator uses the standard formula that most US states follow: your weekly benefit equals the lower of your highest quarter wages divided by 26 or your state's maximum weekly benefit.
To use this calculator, enter your highest quarter wages from your base period (typically the highest-earning three consecutive months), your state's maximum weekly benefit amount, and the expected duration of benefits in weeks. The calculator will instantly compute your estimated weekly, monthly, and total unemployment compensation, along with your wage replacement rate.
State maximum weekly benefit amounts vary significantly across the US, ranging from around $235 in Mississippi to over $800 in Massachusetts as of 2025. Most states offer up to 26 weeks of regular unemployment benefits. You can find your state's specific maximum on your state unemployment insurance agency website.
Note: This calculator provides estimates only. Actual benefit amounts are determined by your state unemployment agency based on your specific earnings history and eligibility. Each state uses its own base period calculation and may use a different divisor than 26.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is my unemployment weekly benefit amount calculated?
Your weekly benefit amount is calculated by taking your highest quarter wages and dividing by 26. The result is then compared to your state maximum weekly benefit, and the lower of the two becomes your weekly benefit. For example, if your highest quarter wages were $15,000, your uncapped weekly benefit would be $577, but if your state caps benefits at $450 per week, you would receive $450.
What is the maximum unemployment benefit duration in the US?
Most states offer a maximum of 26 weeks of regular unemployment insurance benefits. Some states offer fewer weeks (e.g., 12 to 20 weeks). During periods of high unemployment, extended benefits may add up to 13 to 20 additional weeks through state or federal extended benefit programs.
What are highest quarter wages for unemployment?
Your highest quarter wages are the total wages you earned in your highest-earning three-month period (calendar quarter) during your base period. The base period is typically the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you file your claim. States use this amount to determine your weekly benefit amount.
How does the state maximum weekly benefit affect my UI payment?
Every US state sets a maximum weekly benefit amount, which caps how much you can receive regardless of your prior earnings. State maximums vary widely from around $235 in Mississippi to over $800 in Massachusetts. If your calculated benefit (highest quarter wages divided by 26) exceeds your state maximum, your payment will be reduced to the state maximum.
What is the wage replacement rate for unemployment benefits?
The wage replacement rate is the percentage of your prior weekly wages that your unemployment benefit covers. On average, US unemployment insurance replaces about 38 to 45 percent of a worker's previous weekly wages. Higher earners typically have lower replacement rates because they hit the state maximum benefit cap sooner.
Can I work part-time while collecting unemployment?
Yes, most states allow you to work part-time while collecting unemployment benefits, but your benefit will be reduced. Typically, you can earn up to a certain amount (often 25 to 30 percent of your weekly benefit) before your benefit is reduced dollar-for-dollar. You must still meet your state's work search requirements.
Is this calculator specific to the United States?
Yes, this calculator is designed specifically for the US unemployment insurance system. Each state sets its own maximum weekly benefit amount and duration, so you should check your state unemployment agency website for the most accurate state-specific values.
Are unemployment benefits taxable?
Yes, unemployment benefits are considered taxable income by the IRS. You can choose to have federal income tax withheld from your weekly benefit payment (typically 10 percent). Some states also tax unemployment benefits. You will receive a Form 1099-G at tax year showing the total benefits paid.