U.S. States Pay the Highest Unemployment Benefits: Losing a job can be stressful, but unemployment benefits help provide financial stability while job seekers transition to new employment. However, the amount of unemployment benefits varies widely by state, with some offering higher maximum weekly payments than others.
Each state sets its own policies on unemployment benefits, including weekly payment amounts, eligibility criteria, and duration. In this guide, we’ll explore the U.S. states that offer the highest unemployment benefits, how the payments are determined, and how you can apply for assistance if you find yourself out of work.
U.S. States Pay the Highest Unemployment Benefits
| State | Maximum Weekly Benefit (2025) | Maximum Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $1,015 | 30 weeks |
| Washington | $999 | 26 weeks |
| Minnesota | $857 | 26 weeks |
| New Jersey | $830 | 26 weeks |
| Connecticut | $703 (+ Dependents’ Allowance) | 26 weeks |
| Oregon | $648 | 26 weeks |
| Colorado | $745 | 26 weeks |
| Rhode Island | $723 | 26 weeks |
| North Dakota | $786 | 26 weeks |
| Illinois | $484 | 26 weeks |
Unemployment benefits vary widely by state, with Massachusetts, Washington, and Minnesota offering the highest weekly payments. If you lose your job, it’s crucial to apply immediately and understand your state’s eligibility rules and benefit limits. Find your state’s unemployment benefits at DOL.gov.
How Are Unemployment Benefits Determined?
Unemployment benefits are determined by several key factors, including:
- Your Previous Earnings: States calculate your benefit amount based on your highest-paid quarters before losing your job.
- State-Specific Maximums: Each state sets a cap on the maximum weekly benefit amount (WBA).
- Cost of Living: States with a higher cost of living tend to provide higher maximum benefits.
- Employer Contributions: Unemployment benefits are funded through payroll taxes paid by employers.
- Dependents’ Allowance (in Some States): Some states provide additional benefits for dependents, such as Connecticut and New Jersey.
Example Calculation
If you were earning $1,200 per week before losing your job and your state pays 50% of your weekly earnings up to a maximum of $600, you would receive $600 per week in unemployment benefits.
Top 10 States with the Highest Unemployment Benefits in 2025
1. Massachusetts
- Maximum Weekly Benefit: $1,015
- Maximum Duration: 30 weeks
- Why So High? Massachusetts has one of the highest costs of living, leading to higher unemployment benefits to help offset expenses.
2. Washington
- Maximum Weekly Benefit: $999
- Maximum Duration: 26 weeks
- Why So High? Washington has a strong tax base and no state income tax, allowing for more generous unemployment benefits.
3. Minnesota
- Maximum Weekly Benefit: $857
- Maximum Duration: 26 weeks
- Why So High? The state provides substantial support for unemployed workers and has a lower unemployment rate.
4. New Jersey
- Maximum Weekly Benefit: $830
- Maximum Duration: 26 weeks
- Why So High? New Jersey offers an additional dependents’ allowance, increasing benefits for families.
5. Connecticut
- Maximum Weekly Benefit: $703 (+Dependents’ Allowance)
- Maximum Duration: 26 weeks
- Why So High? Connecticut provides a dependents’ allowance ranging from $15 to $75 per child.
6. Oregon
- Maximum Weekly Benefit: $648
- Maximum Duration: 26 weeks
- Why So High? Oregon’s unemployment rate is relatively low, but the state provides a strong social safety net.
7. Colorado
- Maximum Weekly Benefit: $745
- Maximum Duration: 26 weeks
- Why So High? Colorado has progressive unemployment policies that ensure higher benefits.
8. Rhode Island
- Maximum Weekly Benefit: $723
- Maximum Duration: 26 weeks
- Why So High? The state has some of the strongest labor protections in the country.
9. North Dakota
- Maximum Weekly Benefit: $786
- Maximum Duration: 26 weeks
- Why So High? North Dakota has a stable economy and a well-funded unemployment insurance system.
10. Illinois
- Maximum Weekly Benefit: $484
- Maximum Duration: 26 weeks
- Why So High? Illinois balances a strong tax base with substantial unemployment aid.
Apply for Unemployment Benefits
If you’re unemployed, follow these steps to apply:
- Check Your Eligibility:
- You must have lost your job through no fault of your own (layoffs, company closures, etc.).
- You must have earned enough wages in your state’s base period.
- You must be actively looking for work (unless waived by state regulations).
- Gather Required Documents:
- Social Security Number (SSN)
- Driver’s License or State ID
- Previous Employer’s Details (Last 18 months)
- Proof of Earnings (Pay stubs or W-2s)
- Submit Your Application:
- Visit your state’s unemployment insurance website (find yours at CareerOneStop).
- File online, by phone, or in-person at your local unemployment office.
- Certify Weekly:
- Report your job search activities weekly (if required).
- Declare any part-time earnings to avoid overpayments.
FAQs
1. How long does it take to receive unemployment benefits?
- Most states process claims within 2-3 weeks.
- Some may require additional documentation, leading to delays.
2. Can I collect unemployment if I quit my job?
Only if you quit for a valid reason, such as unsafe working conditions or discrimination.
3. Can I work part-time and still collect benefits?
Yes! Many states allow partial unemployment benefits if you earn below a certain threshold.
4. Do unemployment benefits count as taxable income?
- Yes, you must report unemployment benefits on your tax return.
- You can request federal and state tax withholdings.
5. Can I apply for unemployment if I’m self-employed?
- Some states offer benefits to self-employed workers during economic downturns.
- Check your state’s program at DOL.gov.
