Mississippi Unemployment Calculator
Estimate your Mississippi weekly unemployment benefit. Mississippi's maximum is $235/week for up to 26 weeks. Results are estimates — Mississippi 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 Mississippi Department of Employment Security's determination. File your claim to get the official amount.
File your Mississippi claim at MDES Claims →Mississippi unemployment benefits: what you need to know
Mississippi has one of the lowest maximum weekly benefits in the nation at $235. Despite the low weekly cap, the state provides the standard 26-week duration. Poultry, agricultural, and manufacturing workers are common claimants.
Mississippi pays a maximum of $235/week and a minimum of $30/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 $6,110 total.
Mississippi 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.
Mississippi Unemployment FAQ
How much unemployment can I get in Mississippi?
In Mississippi, the maximum weekly benefit is $235 and the minimum is $30. 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 Mississippi Department of Employment Security after you file.
How long do unemployment benefits last in Mississippi?
Mississippi provides up to 26 weeks of regular unemployment benefits under standard conditions. If you exhaust regular benefits, ask Mississippi Department of Employment Security whether any extended programs are currently active.
Is there a waiting week for unemployment in Mississippi?
Yes. Mississippi 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 Mississippi?
Mississippi 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 Mississippi Department of Employment Security audits your claim.
How do I file an unemployment claim in Mississippi?
File with Mississippi Department of Employment Security online at https://www.mdes.ms.gov/ or by phone at 601-493-9427. 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.