Massachusetts unemployment calculator
Estimate your Massachusetts unemployment benefit: 1/2 of your average weekly wage, from $60 to $1,154 a week for up to 30 weeks. July 2026 rules.
- ๐บ๐ธ US federal & state rules
- DOL state law summary, July 2026
- See sources
Estimated Massachusetts weekly benefit
$442.31
your average weekly wage (two highest quarters รท 26) ร 1/2
- Maximum weeks
- 30
- Total over the claim
- $13,269
- Per month
- $1,915
This is an example. Enter your numbers above and press the button to see your own result.
Massachusetts rules
| Minimum weekly benefit | $60 |
|---|---|
| Maximum weekly benefit | $1,154 |
| Weeks | 10 to 30 |
| Waiting week | yes, one unpaid week |
| Dependents allowance | yes |
- Massachusetts adds an allowance for dependents, which is not included. The state's maximum with dependents is higher.
- Massachusetts raised its maximum to $1,154 for claims effective on or after October 4, 2026. Claims filed before then keep the $1,105 maximum.
- Duration in Massachusetts ranges from 10 to 30 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 average weekly wage (two highest quarters รท 26) ร 1/2 |
| Before limits | $442.31 |
| Weekly benefit | $442.31 |
What to do next
How it works
Massachusetts sets the weekly benefit as 1/2 of your average weekly wage. The result is limited to a minimum of $60 and a maximum of $1,154 and paid for up to 30 weeks. These limits apply to claims effective on or after October 4, 2026. Earlier claims keep the old $1,105 maximum. Enter the wages from your base period quarters and the calculator applies that formula. Massachusetts also pays an allowance for dependents, which is not included in the estimate.
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 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts?
The weekly benefit is 1/2 of your average weekly wage, with a minimum of $60 and a maximum of $1,154. Benefits last up to 30 weeks. These limits apply to claims effective on or after October 4, 2026. Earlier claims keep the old $1,105 maximum.
How long does unemployment last in Massachusetts?
Between 10 and 30 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 Massachusetts?
Yes. Massachusetts ignores earnings up to 33% of your weekly benefit and reduces the benefit dollar for dollar above that.
Is there a waiting week in Massachusetts?
Yes. The first eligible week is unpaid in Massachusetts, so the first payment arrives after the second week of the claim.