Rhode Island unemployment calculator
Estimate your Rhode Island unemployment benefit: 3.85% of the average of your two highest quarters, from $82 to $777 a week for up to 26 weeks. July 2026 rules.
- ๐บ๐ธ US federal & state rules
- DOL state law summary, July 2026
- See sources
Estimated Rhode Island weekly benefit
$442.75
average of your two highest quarters ร 3.85%
- Maximum weeks
- 26
- Total over the claim
- $11,512
- Per month
- $1,917
This is an example. Enter your numbers above and press the button to see your own result.
Rhode Island rules
| Minimum weekly benefit | $82 |
|---|---|
| Maximum weekly benefit | $777 ($971 with dependents) |
| Weeks | 17 to 26 |
| Waiting week | yes, one unpaid week |
| Dependents allowance | yes |
- Rhode Island adds an allowance for dependents, which is not included. The state's maximum with dependents is $971.
- Duration in Rhode Island ranges from 17 to 26 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 | average of your two highest quarters ร 3.85% |
| Before limits | $442.75 |
| Weekly benefit | $442.75 |
What to do next
How it works
Rhode Island sets the weekly benefit as 3.85% of the average of your two highest quarters. The result is limited to a minimum of $82 and a maximum of $777 and paid for up to 26 weeks. Enter the wages from your base period quarters and the calculator applies that formula. Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island?
The weekly benefit is 3.85% of the average of your two highest quarters, with a minimum of $82 and a maximum of $777 ($971 with dependents). Benefits last up to 26 weeks.
How long does unemployment last in Rhode Island?
Between 17 and 26 weeks. The number depends on your base period earnings.
Can I work part time and still collect in Rhode Island?
Yes. Rhode Island ignores earnings up to 50% of your weekly benefit and reduces the benefit dollar for dollar above that.
Is there a waiting week in Rhode Island?
Yes. The first eligible week is unpaid in Rhode Island, so the first payment arrives after the second week of the claim.