Louisiana Unemployment Calculator
Estimate your Louisiana weekly unemployment benefit. Louisiana's maximum is $282/week for up to 26 weeks. Results are estimates — Louisiana Workforce Commission 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 Louisiana Workforce Commission's determination. File your claim to get the official amount.
File your Louisiana claim at HIRE Louisiana →Louisiana unemployment benefits: what you need to know
Louisiana has one of the lowest maximum weekly benefits in the Gulf South at $282, among the lowest nationally. Oil, gas, and petrochemical workers are significant claimant groups. The maximum benefit has historically lagged cost-of-living increases.
Louisiana pays a maximum of $282/week and a minimum of $35/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 $7,332 total.
Louisiana has a one-week unpaid waiting period. File and certify for it anyway — payment begins the following eligible week.
3 contacts per week must be documented to stay eligible. Keep a dated log.
Louisiana Unemployment FAQ
How much unemployment can I get in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, the maximum weekly benefit is $282 and the minimum is $35. 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 Louisiana Workforce Commission after you file.
How long do unemployment benefits last in Louisiana?
Louisiana provides up to 26 weeks of regular unemployment benefits under standard conditions. If you exhaust regular benefits, ask Louisiana Workforce Commission whether any extended programs are currently active.
Is there a waiting week for unemployment in Louisiana?
Yes. Louisiana imposes a one-week unpaid waiting period. You still need to file and certify for that week, but it is not paid. Payments begin from the second eligible week.
How many job search contacts are required each week in Louisiana?
Louisiana 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 Louisiana Workforce Commission audits your claim.
How do I file an unemployment claim in Louisiana?
File with Louisiana Workforce Commission online at https://www.laworks.net/ or by phone at 1-866-783-5567. 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.