Kansas Unemployment Benefits (2026): Weekly Amount, Duration & Calculator
As of January 1, 2026, unemployment benefits in Kansas range from $159 to $637 per week, payable for 10–16 weeks. Your weekly benefit amount is 4.25% of your high-quarter wages.
Estimate your weekly benefit
How Kansas calculates your benefit
Weekly benefit amount: 4.25% of your high-quarter wages.
To qualify (earnings requirement): 30 × 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: The lesser of ⅓ of base-period wages or 26 × WBA.
Working part-time: the Kansas partial-benefit rule
If you work reduced hours, Kansas disregards part of your earnings before reducing your check: 25% of your weekly benefit amount. Use the calculator to see what a part-time week would pay.
How Kansas compares
Kansas's $637 maximum ranks #19 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 Kansas?
The maximum weekly benefit amount in Kansas is $637 as of January 1, 2026, payable for 10–16 weeks.
How is the weekly benefit calculated in Kansas?
4.25% of your high-quarter wages. The result is capped between $159 and $637 per week.
Can I work part-time and still get unemployment in Kansas?
Yes, if you earn less than your weekly benefit amount and remain otherwise eligible. Kansas disregards the following before reducing your check: 25% of your weekly benefit amount.
Does severance affect unemployment in Kansas?
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 Kansas?
Between 10 and 16 weeks of regular benefits, depending on your earnings history.