Hawaii Unemployment Benefits (2026): Weekly Amount, Duration & Calculator
As of January 1, 2026, unemployment benefits in Hawaii range from $5 to $868 per week, payable for 26 weeks. Your weekly benefit amount is 1/21 of your high-quarter wages.
Estimate your weekly benefit
How Hawaii calculates your benefit
Weekly benefit amount: 1/21 of your high-quarter wages.
To qualify (earnings requirement): 26 × your WBA, with wages in 2 quarters. 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: 26 × WBA; uniform 26 weeks.
Working part-time: the Hawaii partial-benefit rule
If you work reduced hours, Hawaii disregards part of your earnings before reducing your check: $150 per week. Use the calculator to see what a part-time week would pay.
How Hawaii compares
Hawaii's $868 maximum ranks #6 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 Hawaii?
The maximum weekly benefit amount in Hawaii is $868 as of January 1, 2026, payable for 26 weeks.
How is the weekly benefit calculated in Hawaii?
1/21 of your high-quarter wages. The result is capped between $5 and $868 per week.
Can I work part-time and still get unemployment in Hawaii?
Yes, if you earn less than your weekly benefit amount and remain otherwise eligible. Hawaii disregards the following before reducing your check: $150 per week.
Does severance affect unemployment in Hawaii?
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 Hawaii?
Hawaii pays a uniform 26 weeks to all eligible claimants.