North Carolina unemployment calculator
Estimate your North Carolina unemployment benefit: 1/52 of your last two quarters, from $15 to $350 a week for up to 20 weeks. July 2026 rules.
- ๐บ๐ธ US federal & state rules
- DOL state law summary, July 2026
- See sources
Estimated North Carolina weekly benefit
$350.00
your last two quarters (two highest used here) ร 1/52, capped at the $350 maximum
- Maximum weeks
- 20
- Total over the claim
- $7,000
- Per month
- $1,516
This is an example. Enter your numbers above and press the button to see your own result.
North Carolina rules
| Minimum weekly benefit | $15 |
|---|---|
| Maximum weekly benefit | $350 |
| Weeks | 12 to 20 |
| Waiting week | yes, one unpaid week |
| Dependents allowance | no |
- Duration in North Carolina ranges from 12 to 20 weeks depending on your base period wages. 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 last two quarters (two highest used here) ร 1/52 |
| Before limits | $442.31 |
| Weekly benefit | $350.00 |
What to do next
How it works
North Carolina sets the weekly benefit as 1/52 of your last two quarters. The result is limited to a minimum of $15 and a maximum of $350 and paid for up to 20 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 North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
The weekly benefit is 1/52 of your last two quarters, with a minimum of $15 and a maximum of $350. Benefits last up to 20 weeks.
How long does unemployment last in North Carolina?
Between 12 and 20 weeks. The number depends on your base period earnings.
Can I work part time and still collect in North Carolina?
Yes. North Carolina ignores earnings up to 20% of your weekly benefit and reduces the benefit dollar for dollar above that.
Is there a waiting week in North Carolina?
Yes. The first eligible week is unpaid in North Carolina, so the first payment arrives after the second week of the claim.