Mississippi Unemployment Benefits (2026): Weekly Amount, Duration & Calculator
As of January 1, 2026, unemployment benefits in Mississippi range from $30 to $235 per week, payable for 13–26 weeks. Your weekly benefit amount is 1/26 of your high-quarter wages.
Estimate your weekly benefit
How Mississippi calculates your benefit
Weekly benefit amount: 1/26 of your high-quarter wages.
To qualify (earnings requirement): 40 × your WBA; $780 in your high quarter; 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 Mississippi partial-benefit rule
If you work reduced hours, Mississippi disregards part of your earnings before reducing your check: $40 per week. Use the calculator to see what a part-time week would pay.
How Mississippi compares
Mississippi's $235 maximum ranks #53 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 Mississippi?
The maximum weekly benefit amount in Mississippi is $235 as of January 1, 2026, payable for 13–26 weeks.
How is the weekly benefit calculated in Mississippi?
1/26 of your high-quarter wages. The result is capped between $30 and $235 per week.
Can I work part-time and still get unemployment in Mississippi?
Yes, if you earn less than your weekly benefit amount and remain otherwise eligible. Mississippi disregards the following before reducing your check: $40 per week.
Does severance affect unemployment in Mississippi?
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 Mississippi?
Between 13 and 26 weeks of regular benefits, depending on your earnings history.