Tennessee unemployment calculator
Estimate your Tennessee unemployment benefit: 1/26 of the average of your two highest quarters, from $55 to $325 a week for up to 20 weeks. July 2026 rules.
- ๐บ๐ธ US federal & state rules
- DOL state law summary, July 2026
- See sources
Estimated Tennessee weekly benefit
$325.00
average of your two highest quarters ร 1/26, capped at the $325 maximum
- Maximum weeks
- 20
- Total over the claim
- $6,500
- Per month
- $1,407
This is an example. Enter your numbers above and press the button to see your own result.
Tennessee rules
| Minimum weekly benefit | $55 |
|---|---|
| Maximum weekly benefit | $325 |
| Weeks | 12 to 20 |
| Waiting week | yes, one unpaid week |
| Dependents allowance | no |
- Duration in Tennessee ranges from 12 to 20 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 | average of your two highest quarters ร 1/26 |
| Before limits | $442.31 |
| Weekly benefit | $325.00 |
What to do next
How it works
Tennessee sets the weekly benefit as 1/26 of the average of your two highest quarters. The result is limited to a minimum of $55 and a maximum of $325 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 Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
The weekly benefit is 1/26 of the average of your two highest quarters, with a minimum of $55 and a maximum of $325. Benefits last up to 20 weeks.
How long does unemployment last in Tennessee?
Between 12 and 20 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 Tennessee?
Yes, with a reduced benefit. Tennessee disregards part of your earnings and reduces the benefit for the rest. Enter your weekly earnings above to see the effect.
Is there a waiting week in Tennessee?
Yes. The first eligible week is unpaid in Tennessee, so the first payment arrives after the second week of the claim.