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Unemployment calculator  →  Alaska

Alaska Unemployment Calculator (2026)

In 2026, Alaska pays between $56 and $370 a week in unemployment benefits, and a dependents allowance can raise the top amount to $442. Benefits last 16 to 26 weeks, depending on how your earnings were spread across your base period.

Data verified 2026-07-04Source: US DOL + state statuteEffective 2026-01-01
Weekly benefit range
$56 – $370
Duration
16–26 weeks
Formula
0.9–2.2% of annual wages (schedule)
Apply with
Alaska's unemployment agency official
The actual rule

How Alaska calculates it

Alaska does not use a single formula you can plug your wages into. Instead, the state uses an official benefit schedule based on your total annual wages during the base period. Depending on where your wages fall on that schedule, your weekly benefit works out to roughly 0.9% to 2.2% of your annual wages. If you have dependents, Alaska adds a dependents allowance of up to $72 per week on top of your base benefit.

Because the exact amount comes from a schedule rather than a formula, our calculator gives you an honest range — a minimum and maximum estimate — instead of a single number. Your precise weekly benefit is set by the Alaska Department of Labor when it processes your claim, so treat our estimate as a planning tool and the state's monetary determination as the final word.

How long benefits last also varies. Alaska pays between 16 and 26 weeks based on a schedule that compares your total base period wages to your highest-earning quarter. In plain terms: the more evenly you earned money across the year, the more weeks of benefits you can draw.

0.9–2.2% of annual wages (schedule), clamped to $56 – $370
Source: US DOL “Significant Provisions of State UI Laws” (Jan 2026) + state statute · verified 2026-07-04

Dependents: up to $72/week

Qualifying

Do you qualify in Alaska?

To qualify financially in Alaska, you need at least $2,500 in total wages during your base period, with wages in at least two calendar quarters. You also need at least $250 earned outside your highest-earning quarter — this rule filters out people whose income all came from one short burst of work.

Money is only half the test. You also need to have lost your job through no fault of your own, be able and available to work, and actively look for work while you collect benefits. You'll certify your status on a regular schedule, and the state agency makes the final call on every claim.

Maximum total benefit: Weighted schedule of BPW-to-HQW ratio x WBA.

Common questions

Alaska unemployment, in plain language

How much unemployment will I get in Alaska? +
In 2026, Alaska's weekly benefit ranges from $56 to $370. If you have dependents, a dependents allowance of up to $72 per week can raise your total — the maximum with dependents is $442 and the minimum is $128. Your exact amount depends on where your annual wages fall on the state's benefit schedule.
How long does unemployment last in Alaska? +
Between 16 and 26 weeks. Alaska sets your duration using a schedule that compares your total base period wages to your high-quarter wages — steadier earnings across the year generally mean more weeks. This does not count any state or federal extensions that may apply during periods of high unemployment.
How is the weekly benefit calculated in Alaska? +
Alaska uses an official benefit schedule, not a simple formula. Your weekly amount works out to roughly 0.9% to 2.2% of your annual base period wages, depending on where your wages land on the schedule, plus a dependents allowance of up to $72 per week if you qualify. Because it's a table lookup, our tool shows you a realistic range rather than one exact number — only the state's official determination gives you the precise figure.
Can I work part-time and still get unemployment in Alaska? +
Yes, if you stay able, available, and looking for full-time work. Alaska disregards the first $50 you earn each week plus one-quarter of anything over $50; earnings beyond that reduce your weekly check. Always report every dollar you earn — unreported earnings can lead to overpayments and penalties.
Do I qualify for unemployment in Alaska? +
You generally qualify if you earned at least $2,500 in your base period, had wages in at least two quarters, earned at least $250 outside your highest quarter, and lost your job through no fault of your own. You must also be able to work, available for work, and actively job hunting each week you claim.
Does Alaska pay extra for dependents? +
Yes. Alaska adds a dependents allowance of up to $72 per week on top of your base benefit. With the allowance, the weekly minimum rises from $56 to $128 and the weekly maximum rises from $370 to $442.
Is unemployment taxable in Alaska? +
Unemployment benefits are taxable income on your federal return. You can ask to have a flat 10% withheld by filing Form W-4V with the agency that pays your benefits. State and local tax treatment varies by where you live and file, so check the current rules or talk to a tax professional — this isn't tax advice.
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