Minnesota Unemployment Benefits (2026): Weekly Amount, Duration & Calculator
As of January 1, 2026, unemployment benefits in Minnesota range from $37 to $611 per week, payable for 9–26 weeks. Your weekly benefit amount is the higher of: 50% of 1/13 of high-quarter wages (up to 43% of the state average weekly wage), or 50% of 1/52 of base-period wages (up to 66⅔% of the state average weekly wage).
Maximum is $611 under the high-quarter method or $948 under the annual method.
Estimate your weekly benefit
How Minnesota calculates your benefit
Weekly benefit amount: The higher of: 50% of 1/13 of high-quarter wages (up to 43% of the state average weekly wage), or 50% of 1/52 of base-period wages (up to 66⅔% of the state average weekly wage).
To qualify (earnings requirement): Base-period wages of at least 5.3% of the state average annual 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 ⅓ of base-period wages or 26 × WBA.
Working part-time: the Minnesota partial-benefit rule
If you work reduced hours, Minnesota disregards part of your earnings before reducing your check: Benefits are reduced 50¢ for every $1 earned. Use the calculator to see what a part-time week would pay.
How Minnesota compares
Minnesota's $611 maximum ranks #27 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 Minnesota?
The maximum weekly benefit amount in Minnesota is $611 as of January 1, 2026, payable for 9–26 weeks.
How is the weekly benefit calculated in Minnesota?
The higher of: 50% of 1/13 of high-quarter wages (up to 43% of the state average weekly wage), or 50% of 1/52 of base-period wages (up to 66⅔% of the state average weekly wage). The result is capped between $37 and $611 per week.
Can I work part-time and still get unemployment in Minnesota?
Yes, if you earn less than your weekly benefit amount and remain otherwise eligible. Minnesota disregards the following before reducing your check: Benefits are reduced 50¢ for every $1 earned.
Does severance affect unemployment in Minnesota?
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 Minnesota?
Between 9 and 26 weeks of regular benefits, depending on your earnings history and the state unemployment rate.