Virginia unemployment calculator

Estimate your Virginia unemployment benefit: the higher of two formulas set in state law, from $160 to $478 a week for up to 26 weeks. July 2026 rules.

  • ๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ธ US federal & state rules
  • DOL state law summary, July 2026
  • See sources
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Of the base period, usually the first four of the last five completed quarters.

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If you will work while claiming.

Example

Virginia weekly benefit

$160 to $478

Virginia uses a formula with several parts set by state law, so the exact amount needs the state's own calculator.

Maximum weeks
26
Maximum total
$12,428

This is an example. Enter your numbers above and press the button to see your own result.

  • The DOL summary for Virginia lists a schedule rather than a single fraction. The state agency's calculator or claim portal gives the exact figure.
  • Based on the U.S. Department of Labor summary of state laws, July 2026.

What to do next

Partial unemployment

How a part-time job changes your weekly check

Benefits by state

Compare maximum benefits and weeks across all states

Federal income tax

Unemployment benefits are taxable. See what you will owe

How it works

Virginia sets the weekly benefit as the higher of two formulas set in state law. The result is limited to a minimum of $160 and a maximum of $478 and paid for up to 26 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 Virginia agency makes the actual determination, and benefits are taxable income.

Sources

Rules applied as of 2026-07-01. See the sources below for details.

Frequently asked questions

How much is unemployment in Virginia?

The weekly benefit is the higher of two formulas set in state law, with a minimum of $160 and a maximum of $478. Benefits last up to 26 weeks.

How long does unemployment last in Virginia?

Between 12 and 26 weeks. The number depends on your base period earnings.

Can I work part time and still collect in Virginia?

Yes. Virginia ignores the first $100 you earn in a week and reduces the benefit dollar for dollar above that.

Is there a waiting week in Virginia?

Yes. The first eligible week is unpaid in Virginia, so the first payment arrives after the second week of the claim.

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