Illinois Unemployment Calculator
Estimate your Illinois weekly unemployment benefit. Illinois's maximum is $628/week for up to 26 weeks. Results are estimates — Illinois Department of Employment Security makes the official determination.
Estimate My Weekly Benefit
This is an estimate only. Your actual benefit depends on your specific base period wages, employer records, and Illinois Department of Employment Security's determination. File your claim to get the official amount.
File your Illinois claim at IDES Online →Illinois unemployment benefits: what you need to know
Illinois has no waiting week and offers one of the highest maximum weekly benefits in the Midwest. Dependency allowances of up to $15 per dependent per week (max $92.50) can increase the payment. The Chicago metro generates high claim volume which can slow processing.
Illinois pays a maximum of $628/week and a minimum of $51/week. Your amount is set by your base-period earnings, capped at the state maximum.
Up to 26 weeks under standard conditions. At the maximum rate, that is about $16,328 total.
Illinois has no unpaid waiting week. Eligible payments can begin from your first certified week.
3 contacts per week must be documented to stay eligible. Keep a dated log.
Illinois Unemployment FAQ
How much unemployment can I get in Illinois?
In Illinois, the maximum weekly benefit is $628 and the minimum is $51. Your actual weekly benefit amount is based on your earnings during your base period (typically the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters). Use the estimator above to get an approximate figure, then confirm the exact amount with Illinois Department of Employment Security after you file.
How long do unemployment benefits last in Illinois?
Illinois provides up to 26 weeks of regular unemployment benefits under standard conditions. Duration in this state can vary with the statewide unemployment rate — verify the current maximum when you file. If you exhaust regular benefits, ask Illinois Department of Employment Security whether any extended programs are currently active.
Is there a waiting week for unemployment in Illinois?
No. Illinois does not impose an unpaid waiting week — eligible payments can begin from your first certified week. File as soon as possible after your last day of work.
How many job search contacts are required each week in Illinois?
Illinois requires 3 work search contacts per week to remain eligible while collecting benefits. Keep a dated log of each activity (employer name, date, method of contact) in case Illinois Department of Employment Security audits your claim.
How do I file an unemployment claim in Illinois?
File with Illinois Department of Employment Security online at https://ides.illinois.gov/ or by phone at (800) 244-5631. Have your Social Security number, employer information for the last 18 months, reason for separation, and bank details for direct deposit ready. File the same week you lose your job — most states pay from the week you file, not the week your job ended.