North Dakota Unemployment Benefits (2026): Weekly Amount, Duration & Calculator
As of January 1, 2026, unemployment benefits in North Dakota range from $43 to $815 per week, payable for 12–26 weeks. Your weekly benefit amount is 1/65 of wages in your two highest quarters plus ½ of wages in your third-highest quarter.
Estimate your weekly benefit
North Dakota's formula needs your third-highest quarter, so this page shows the state minimum–maximum range.
How North Dakota calculates your benefit
Weekly benefit amount: 1/65 of wages in your two highest quarters plus ½ of wages in your third-highest quarter.
To qualify (earnings requirement): 1½ × high-quarter wages, 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: A weighted schedule of base-period wages to high-quarter wages, × WBA.
Working part-time: the North Dakota partial-benefit rule
If you work reduced hours, North Dakota disregards part of your earnings before reducing your check: 60% of your weekly benefit amount. Use the calculator to see what a part-time week would pay.
How North Dakota compares
North Dakota's $815 maximum ranks #7 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 North Dakota?
The maximum weekly benefit amount in North Dakota is $815 as of January 1, 2026, payable for 12–26 weeks.
How is the weekly benefit calculated in North Dakota?
1/65 of wages in your two highest quarters plus ½ of wages in your third-highest quarter. The result is capped between $43 and $815 per week.
Can I work part-time and still get unemployment in North Dakota?
Yes, if you earn less than your weekly benefit amount and remain otherwise eligible. North Dakota disregards the following before reducing your check: 60% of your weekly benefit amount.
Does severance affect unemployment in North Dakota?
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 North Dakota?
Between 12 and 26 weeks of regular benefits, depending on your earnings history.