Georgia Unemployment Benefits (2026): Weekly Amount, Duration & Calculator
As of January 1, 2026, unemployment benefits in Georgia range from $55 to $365 per week, payable for 6–26 weeks. Your weekly benefit amount is 1/42 of wages in your two highest quarters (or 1/21 of the high quarter).
Weeks depend on base-period wages and the state unemployment rate.
Estimate your weekly benefit
How Georgia calculates your benefit
Weekly benefit amount: 1/42 of wages in your two highest quarters (or 1/21 of the high quarter).
To qualify (earnings requirement): Wages in 2 quarters and 150% × high-quarter wages; or high-quarter wages ÷ 21 for the WBA, with 2-quarter earnings of at least 40 × WBA. 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: The lesser of 14 × WBA or ¼ of base-period wages.
Working part-time: the Georgia partial-benefit rule
If you work reduced hours, Georgia disregards part of your earnings before reducing your check: $50 per week. Use the calculator to see what a part-time week would pay.
How Georgia compares
Georgia's $365 maximum ranks #43 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 Georgia?
The maximum weekly benefit amount in Georgia is $365 as of January 1, 2026, payable for 6–26 weeks.
How is the weekly benefit calculated in Georgia?
1/42 of wages in your two highest quarters (or 1/21 of the high quarter). The result is capped between $55 and $365 per week.
Can I work part-time and still get unemployment in Georgia?
Yes, if you earn less than your weekly benefit amount and remain otherwise eligible. Georgia disregards the following before reducing your check: $50 per week.
Does severance affect unemployment in Georgia?
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 Georgia?
Between 6 and 26 weeks of regular benefits, depending on your earnings history and the state unemployment rate.