District of Columbia Unemployment Benefits (2026): Weekly Amount, Duration & Calculator
As of January 1, 2026, unemployment benefits in District of Columbia range from $50 to $444 per week, payable for 26 weeks. Your weekly benefit amount is 1/26 of your high-quarter wages.
Estimate your weekly benefit
How District of Columbia calculates your benefit
Weekly benefit amount: 1/26 of your high-quarter wages.
To qualify (earnings requirement): 1½ × high-quarter wages (or within $70); at least $1,950 in 2 quarters and $1,300 in 1 quarter. You must also be unemployed through no fault of your own, and be able to work, available for work, and actively seeking work.
Total benefits on the claim: Uniform 26 weeks.
Working part-time: the District of Columbia partial-benefit rule
If you work reduced hours, District of Columbia disregards part of your earnings before reducing your check: ⅓ of wages plus $50. Use the calculator to see what a part-time week would pay.
How District of Columbia compares
District of Columbia's $444 maximum ranks #36 of 53 U.S. jurisdictions. The highest maximums nationally:
- Washington — up to $1,152/week
- Massachusetts — up to $1,105/week
- New Jersey — up to $905/week
- Oregon — up to $872/week
- New York — up to $869/week
See the full state-by-state table.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum unemployment benefit in District of Columbia?
The maximum weekly benefit amount in District of Columbia is $444 as of January 1, 2026, payable for 26 weeks.
How is the weekly benefit calculated in District of Columbia?
1/26 of your high-quarter wages. The result is capped between $50 and $444 per week.
Can I work part-time and still get unemployment in District of Columbia?
Yes, if you earn less than your weekly benefit amount and remain otherwise eligible. District of Columbia disregards the following before reducing your check: ⅓ of wages plus $50.
Does severance affect unemployment in District of Columbia?
It depends on how the severance is characterized and paid. Some states delay or reduce benefits during weeks covered by severance or wages in lieu of notice; others do not. Report any severance when you file and let the agency make the determination — see our severance guide for how this generally works.
How long do unemployment benefits last in District of Columbia?
District of Columbia pays a uniform 26 weeks to all eligible claimants.