What are the maximum weekly unemployment benefit caps in major states?

State maximums vary widely: California ($450/wk), New York ($504/wk), Texas ($577/wk), Florida ($275/wk), Illinois ($614/wk for single), Washington ($1,019/wk), and Massachusetts ($1,033/wk).

Are state unemployment benefits taxable by the IRS?

Yes. Unemployment compensation is 100% taxable as ordinary income on your federal tax return (Form 1040). You can elect voluntary 10% federal withholding when applying.

USAUpdated for 2026Finance

US State Unemployment Insurance (UI) Benefit Calculator 2026

Calculate your estimated Weekly Benefit Amount (WBA), wage replacement percentage (approx. 50%), statutory state maximum benefit caps (California $450, New York $504, Texas $577, Florida $275, Illinois $614), and total 26-week maximum compensation.

Salaries & Monthly Wages Insurance & Coverage Income Tax & Brackets

Calculated Result

Net Weekly Unemployment Benefit (WBA)

405$/week

Calculator Inputs

State Where You Worked

Gross Wages in Your Highest-Earning Quarter (3-Month Period)

$/week

Quick select:

Elect 10% Voluntary Federal Income Tax Withholding

Net Weekly Unemployment Benefit (WBA)

405$/week

Total Maximum Benefits Available

$11,700

Equivalent Monthly Benefit

1,949.85 $/mo

Gross Weekly Benefit Amount (WBA)

450 $/week

Voluntary 10% Federal Tax Withholding

45 $/week

Unemployment benefits replace approximately 50% of prior average weekly wages up to state-specific statutory weekly caps. UI benefits are subject to federal income tax.

This calculator is a mathematical model for general financial estimation, planning, and educational guidance. Results depend on your inputs and standard formulas, and do not constitute binding financial, tax, or investment advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making financial decisions.

Official Statute: Federal Unemployment Tax Act (FUTA 26 U.S.C. § 3301 & State Unemployment Insurance Benefit Schedules)Last Verified: 2026-09-04

Calculation Methodology

Raw Weekly Benefit = High Quarter Base Wages / 26 (approx 50% of weekly pay). Weekly Benefit Amount = min(State Statutory Max Cap, max(State Min, Raw Weekly Benefit)). Total Maximum Benefit = WBA * Duration Weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

States examine your earnings during a standard 4-quarter base period (often taking your highest-earning quarter and dividing by 26) to replace roughly 50% of your lost wages, subject to the state's weekly cap.

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US State Unemployment Insurance (UI) Benefit Calculator 2026

Calculator Inputs

Calculation Methodology

Frequently Asked Questions

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