How to Use the Unemployment Benefit Duration Calculator
Unlike a federal program, unemployment insurance (UI) in the United States is administered separately by each state, so how long you can collect benefits depends on your state's rules — but nearly all states tie your maximum duration to how much work history you have in your base period, typically the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you filed.
This calculator uses a representative formula: less than three months of recent work history yields a shorter benefit period, while a full base year of steady work typically qualifies you for the common maximum of 26 weeks that most states use for regular UI.
If you enter your average weekly wage, the calculator also estimates a weekly benefit amount — commonly around 50% of your average wage, subject to a state-set floor and cap. These caps vary enormously: some states cap weekly benefits near $300, while others go well over $800. Treat the numbers here as a representative example and check your own state unemployment agency for exact figures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most states base your maximum benefit weeks on how much you worked and earned during your base period (usually the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters). Most states cap regular UI at 26 weeks, though a few states offer fewer.
No. Unemployment insurance is run by each state, so exact formulas, weekly benefit caps, and maximum durations vary significantly. This calculator uses a representative example — always confirm your state's exact rules with your state workforce agency.