Wisconsin Unemployment Calculator
Estimate your Wisconsin weekly unemployment benefit. Wisconsin's maximum is $370/week for up to 26 weeks. Results are estimates — Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development 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 Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development's determination. File your claim to get the official amount.
File your Wisconsin claim at Wisconsin Unemployment →Wisconsin unemployment benefits: what you need to know
Wisconsin requires 4 documented work search actions per week, above the 3-contact norm. Manufacturing and dairy processing workers are significant claimant groups. The maximum weekly benefit of $370 is below the Midwest average despite the state's above-average wage levels.
Wisconsin pays a maximum of $370/week and a minimum of $54/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 $9,620 total.
Wisconsin has a one-week unpaid waiting period. File and certify for it anyway — payment begins the following eligible week.
4 contacts per week must be documented to stay eligible. Keep a dated log.
Wisconsin Unemployment FAQ
How much unemployment can I get in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, the maximum weekly benefit is $370 and the minimum is $54. 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 Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development after you file.
How long do unemployment benefits last in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin provides up to 26 weeks of regular unemployment benefits under standard conditions. If you exhaust regular benefits, ask Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development whether any extended programs are currently active.
Is there a waiting week for unemployment in Wisconsin?
Yes. Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin?
Wisconsin requires 4 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 Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development audits your claim.
How do I file an unemployment claim in Wisconsin?
File with Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development online at https://dwd.wisconsin.gov/uiben/ or by phone at 1-844-910-3661. 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.