Montana Unemployment Calculator
Estimate your Montana weekly unemployment benefit. Montana's maximum is $767/week for up to 28 weeks. Results are estimates — Montana Unemployment Insurance Division 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 Montana Unemployment Insurance Division's determination. File your claim to get the official amount.
File your Montana claim at Montana UI Claims →Montana unemployment benefits: what you need to know
Montana provides up to 28 weeks of benefits, slightly above the national 26-week standard. The minimum weekly benefit at $227 is among the higher floors nationally. Seasonal and agricultural workers make up a significant portion of claimants.
Montana pays a maximum of $767/week and a minimum of $227/week. Your amount is set by your base-period earnings, capped at the state maximum.
Up to 28 weeks under standard conditions. At the maximum rate, that is about $21,476 total.
Montana 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.
Montana Unemployment FAQ
How much unemployment can I get in Montana?
In Montana, the maximum weekly benefit is $767 and the minimum is $227. 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 Montana Unemployment Insurance Division after you file.
How long do unemployment benefits last in Montana?
Montana provides up to 28 weeks of regular unemployment benefits under standard conditions. If you exhaust regular benefits, ask Montana Unemployment Insurance Division whether any extended programs are currently active.
Is there a waiting week for unemployment in Montana?
Yes. Montana 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 Montana?
Montana 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 Montana Unemployment Insurance Division audits your claim.
How do I file an unemployment claim in Montana?
File with Montana Unemployment Insurance Division online at https://uid.dli.mt.gov/ or by phone at (406) 444-2545. 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.