Missouri Unemployment Benefits (2026): Weekly Amount, Duration & Calculator
As of January 1, 2026, unemployment benefits in Missouri range from $35 to $320 per week, payable for 8–20 weeks. Your weekly benefit amount is 4% of the average of your two highest quarters.
Estimate your weekly benefit
How Missouri calculates your benefit
Weekly benefit amount: 4% of the average of your two highest quarters.
To qualify (earnings requirement): 1½ × high-quarter wages with $1,500 in one quarter; or wages in 2 quarters equal to 1½ × the maximum taxable wage base. 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 20 × WBA.
Working part-time: the Missouri partial-benefit rule
If you work reduced hours, Missouri disregards part of your earnings before reducing your check: The greater of 20% of your WBA or $20. Use the calculator to see what a part-time week would pay.
How Missouri compares
Missouri's $320 maximum ranks #48 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 Missouri?
The maximum weekly benefit amount in Missouri is $320 as of January 1, 2026, payable for 8–20 weeks.
How is the weekly benefit calculated in Missouri?
4% of the average of your two highest quarters. The result is capped between $35 and $320 per week.
Can I work part-time and still get unemployment in Missouri?
Yes, if you earn less than your weekly benefit amount and remain otherwise eligible. Missouri disregards the following before reducing your check: The greater of 20% of your WBA or $20.
Does severance affect unemployment in Missouri?
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 Missouri?
Between 8 and 20 weeks of regular benefits, depending on your earnings history.