Alabama unemployment calculator
Estimate your Alabama unemployment benefit: 1/26 of the average of your two highest quarters, from $45 to $275 a week for up to 14 weeks. July 2026 rules.
- ๐บ๐ธ US federal & state rules
- DOL state law summary, July 2026
- See sources
Estimated Alabama weekly benefit
$275.00
average of your two highest quarters ร 1/26, capped at the $275 maximum
- Maximum weeks
- 14
- Total over the claim
- $3,850
- Per month
- $1,191
This is an example. Enter your numbers above and press the button to see your own result.
Alabama rules
| Minimum weekly benefit | $45 |
|---|---|
| Maximum weekly benefit | $275 |
| Weeks | 14 |
| Waiting week | yes, one unpaid week |
| Dependents allowance | no |
- Based on the U.S. Department of Labor summary of state laws, July 2026. Benefits are taxable income, and eligibility depends on why you left the job and whether you are looking for work.
Show the math
| Highest quarter | $12,000 |
|---|---|
| Second highest quarter | $11,000 |
| Base period total | $43,000 |
| Formula | average of your two highest quarters ร 1/26 |
| Before limits | $442.31 |
| Weekly benefit | $275.00 |
What to do next
How it works
Alabama sets the weekly benefit as 1/26 of the average of your two highest quarters. The result is limited to a minimum of $45 and a maximum of $275 and paid for up to 14 weeks. Enter the wages from your base period quarters and the calculator applies that formula.
Things to keep in mind
The base period is usually the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you file. Your highest quarter drives most formulas, so check your pay stubs for the quarter where you earned the most.
Figures come from the U.S. Department of Labor's summary of state laws, July 2026. The Alabama agency makes the actual determination, and benefits are taxable income.
Sources
Rules applied as of 2026-07-01. See the sources below for details.
- Significant Provisions of State UI Laws, Effective July 2026Checked 2026-10-19
Frequently asked questions
How much is unemployment in Alabama?
The weekly benefit is 1/26 of the average of your two highest quarters, with a minimum of $45 and a maximum of $275. Benefits last up to 14 weeks.
How long does unemployment last in Alabama?
14 weeks for a regular claim. Extended benefits can apply when the state unemployment rate is high.
Can I work part time and still collect in Alabama?
Yes. Alabama ignores earnings up to 33% of your weekly benefit and reduces the benefit dollar for dollar above that.
Is there a waiting week in Alabama?
Yes. The first eligible week is unpaid in Alabama, so the first payment arrives after the second week of the claim.