Wisconsin Unemployment Benefits (2026): Weekly Amount, Duration & Calculator
As of January 1, 2026, unemployment benefits in Wisconsin range from $54 to $370 per week, payable for 14–26 weeks. Your weekly benefit amount is 4% of your high-quarter wages.
Estimate your weekly benefit
How Wisconsin calculates your benefit
Weekly benefit amount: 4% of your high-quarter wages.
To qualify (earnings requirement): 35 × your WBA; high quarter over $1,350; 4 × WBA outside your high quarter. 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 40% of base-period wages or 26 × WBA.
Working part-time: the Wisconsin partial-benefit rule
If you work reduced hours, Wisconsin disregards part of your earnings before reducing your check: $30 plus 33% of wages in excess of $30. Use the calculator to see what a part-time week would pay.
How Wisconsin compares
Wisconsin's $370 maximum ranks #42 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 Wisconsin?
The maximum weekly benefit amount in Wisconsin is $370 as of January 1, 2026, payable for 14–26 weeks.
How is the weekly benefit calculated in Wisconsin?
4% of your high-quarter wages. The result is capped between $54 and $370 per week.
Can I work part-time and still get unemployment in Wisconsin?
Yes, if you earn less than your weekly benefit amount and remain otherwise eligible. Wisconsin disregards the following before reducing your check: $30 plus 33% of wages in excess of $30.
Does severance affect unemployment in Wisconsin?
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 Wisconsin?
Between 14 and 26 weeks of regular benefits, depending on your earnings history.