Michigan Unemployment Benefits (2026): Weekly Amount, Duration & Calculator
As of January 1, 2026, unemployment benefits in Michigan range from $218 to $530 per week, payable for 14–26 weeks. Your weekly benefit amount is 4.1% of your high-quarter wages, plus $19.33 per dependent (up to 5).
Estimate your weekly benefit
How Michigan calculates your benefit
Weekly benefit amount: 4.1% of your high-quarter wages, plus $19.33 per dependent (up to 5).
To qualify (earnings requirement): Base-period wages of 1½ × high-quarter wages with wages in 2 quarters and at least $5,328 in the high quarter; or wages in 2 quarters with base-period wages of at least 20 × the state average weekly wage. 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 43% of base-period wages or 26 × WBA.
Working part-time: the Michigan partial-benefit rule
If you work reduced hours, Michigan disregards part of your earnings before reducing your check: Earnings reduce benefits 50¢ per $1 (below 1.5 × WBA) or $1 per $1 (above); benefits plus earnings can't exceed 1.5 × WBA. Use the calculator to see what a part-time week would pay.
How Michigan compares
Michigan's $530 maximum ranks #32 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 Michigan?
The maximum weekly benefit amount in Michigan is $530 as of January 1, 2026, payable for 14–26 weeks.
How is the weekly benefit calculated in Michigan?
4.1% of your high-quarter wages, plus $19.33 per dependent (up to 5). The result is capped between $218 and $530 per week.
Can I work part-time and still get unemployment in Michigan?
Yes, if you earn less than your weekly benefit amount and remain otherwise eligible. Michigan disregards the following before reducing your check: Earnings reduce benefits 50¢ per $1 (below 1.5 × WBA) or $1 per $1 (above); benefits plus earnings can't exceed 1.5 × WBA.
Does severance affect unemployment in Michigan?
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 Michigan?
Between 14 and 26 weeks of regular benefits, depending on your earnings history.