Kentucky unemployment calculator
Estimate your Kentucky unemployment benefit: 1.19% of your total base period wages, from $39 to $720 a week for up to 24 weeks. July 2026 rules.
- ๐บ๐ธ US federal & state rules
- DOL state law summary, July 2026
- See sources
Estimated Kentucky weekly benefit
$512.69
your base period wages ร 1.19%
- Maximum weeks
- 24
- Total over the claim
- $12,305
- Per month
- $2,220
This is an example. Enter your numbers above and press the button to see your own result.
Kentucky rules
| Minimum weekly benefit | $39 |
|---|---|
| Maximum weekly benefit | $720 |
| Weeks | 16 to 24 |
| Waiting week | yes, one unpaid week |
| Dependents allowance | no |
- Duration in Kentucky ranges from 16 to 24 weeks depending on your base period wages and the state unemployment rate. The total shown uses the maximum.
- 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 | your base period wages ร 1.19% |
| Before limits | $512.69 |
| Weekly benefit | $512.69 |
What to do next
How it works
Kentucky sets the weekly benefit as 1.19% of your total base period wages. The result is limited to a minimum of $39 and a maximum of $720 and paid for up to 24 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 Kentucky 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 Kentucky?
The weekly benefit is 1.19% of your total base period wages, with a minimum of $39 and a maximum of $720. Benefits last up to 24 weeks.
How long does unemployment last in Kentucky?
Between 16 and 24 weeks. The number depends on your base period earnings and, in some years, the state unemployment rate.
Can I work part time and still collect in Kentucky?
Yes. Kentucky ignores earnings up to 20% of your earnings and reduces the benefit dollar for dollar above that.
Is there a waiting week in Kentucky?
Yes. The first eligible week is unpaid in Kentucky, so the first payment arrives after the second week of the claim.