Illinois Unemployment Benefits (2026): Weekly Amount, Duration & Calculator
As of January 1, 2026, unemployment benefits in Illinois range from $51 to $628 per week (up to $859 with the maximum dependents’ allowance), payable for 26 weeks. Your weekly benefit amount is 47% of your average weekly wage in your two highest quarters.
Estimate your weekly benefit
How Illinois calculates your benefit
Weekly benefit amount: 47% of your average weekly wage in your two highest quarters.
To qualify (earnings requirement): $1,600 in the base period, with $440 outside your high 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: The lesser of 26 × WBA (plus dependents' allowance) or base-period wages.
Working part-time: the Illinois partial-benefit rule
If you work reduced hours, Illinois disregards part of your earnings before reducing your check: Half of your weekly benefit amount. Use the calculator to see what a part-time week would pay.
How Illinois compares
Illinois's $628 maximum ranks #21 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 Illinois?
The maximum weekly benefit amount in Illinois is $628 (up to $859 with the maximum dependents’ allowance) as of January 1, 2026, payable for 26 weeks.
How is the weekly benefit calculated in Illinois?
47% of your average weekly wage in your two highest quarters. The result is capped between $51 and $628 per week.
Can I work part-time and still get unemployment in Illinois?
Yes, if you earn less than your weekly benefit amount and remain otherwise eligible. Illinois disregards the following before reducing your check: Half of your weekly benefit amount.
Does severance affect unemployment in Illinois?
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 Illinois?
Illinois pays a uniform 26 weeks to all eligible claimants.