How your unemployment benefit is calculated
Unemployment insurance in the United States is run by each state, not by the federal government, so the formula that decides your weekly check is written in your own state law. The most common approach divides the wages from your highest base period quarter by 26, then applies a statewide maximum.
Legal basis: the federal-state UI program rests on the Social Security Act Title III and the Federal Unemployment Tax Act, 26 U.S.C. ยง3301 and following, but eligibility, the weekly benefit amount and duration are set by state statute. Many states use highest quarter wages divided by 26 or by 25, some use average weekly wage times a percentage, and weekly maximums range widely. Standard duration is up to 26 weeks in most states, with a handful paying 12 to 20 weeks. Figures are representative as of September 2026 and are revised annually, so confirm with your state workforce agency.
You generally must have earned enough in the base period and be unemployed through no fault of your own; the agency decides eligibility. This calculator is for reference only and is not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney about your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Usually the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you file. Many states also offer an alternate base period using more recent wages if you do not qualify under the standard one.
It approximates half of a two-quarter average, producing a weekly amount near half of your usual weekly wage. States that use a different divisor or a percentage formula reach a similar result.
Yes, unemployment compensation is taxable income for federal purposes, and you can ask the agency to withhold 10 percent on Form W-4V. State treatment varies.