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Unemployment calculator  →  Delaware

Delaware Unemployment Calculator (2026)

In 2026, Delaware unemployment benefits range from $20 to $450 a week, based on your past wages. Depending on your work history, benefits last between 24 and 26 weeks.

Data verified 2026-07-04Source: US DOL + state statuteEffective 2026-01-01
Weekly benefit range
$20 – $450
Duration
24–26 weeks
Formula
two highest quarters ÷ 46
Apply with
Delaware's unemployment agency official
The actual rule

How Delaware calculates it

Delaware adds up your wages from your two highest-earning quarters and divides the total by 46. For example, if your two best quarters add up to $18,400, your weekly benefit is $18,400 divided by 46, which is $400.

The weekly benefit is at least $20 and at most $450 in 2026. Delaware does not pay a dependents allowance, so your amount depends only on your own wages.

Duration depends on your earnings: your total benefit pool is the lesser of one-half of your base-period wages or 26 times your weekly benefit. For most people that means 24 to 26 weeks. To qualify money-wise, your total base-period wages must be at least 36 times your weekly benefit amount.

two highest quarters ÷ 46, clamped to $20 – $450
Source: US DOL “Significant Provisions of State UI Laws” (Jan 2026) + state statute · verified 2026-07-04
Qualifying

Do you qualify in Delaware?

Delaware's monetary test requires total base-period wages of at least 36 times your weekly benefit amount. Beyond that, you generally must have lost your job through no fault of your own, be able and available for work, and actively look for a new job each week you claim. The state agency reviews and decides every claim.

Maximum total benefit: Lesser of 1/2 BPW or 26 x WBA.

Common questions

Delaware unemployment, in plain language

How much unemployment will I get in Delaware? +
In 2026, Delaware pays between $20 and $450 a week. Your amount is your two highest-earning quarters combined, divided by 46, capped at those limits.
How long does unemployment last in Delaware? +
Between 24 and 26 weeks, depending on your earnings. Your total benefit pool is the lesser of one-half of your base-period wages or 26 times your weekly benefit. Extensions may be available during periods of high unemployment.
How is the weekly benefit calculated in Delaware? +
Delaware adds your wages from your two highest quarters and divides by 46. For example, $18,400 in combined wages from your two best quarters gives you a $400 weekly benefit. The result is capped between $20 and $450 in 2026.
Can I work part-time and still get unemployment in Delaware? +
Yes. Delaware disregards the greater of $10 or 50% of your weekly benefit amount; earnings above that reduce your benefit dollar for dollar. If you earn too much in a week, you get nothing for that week. Report all work and gross earnings on your weekly claim.
Who qualifies for unemployment in Delaware? +
You need total base-period wages of at least 36 times your weekly benefit amount. You also generally must be out of work through no fault of your own, able and available to work, and actively job searching each week. Delaware's unemployment agency makes the final determination on every claim.
Is unemployment taxable in Delaware? +
Yes, unemployment benefits count as taxable income on your federal return. You can ask to have federal income tax withheld by filing Form W-4V. State tax rules vary, so check with a tax professional or your state tax agency. This is general information, not tax advice.
What if my unemployment claim in Delaware is denied? +
You have the right to appeal. Appeal windows are usually short, so act quickly after you receive the decision. Check with Delaware's unemployment agency for the exact steps and deadlines, and keep filing your weekly claims while the appeal is pending.
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States with similar benefits

California (max $450) →Arkansas (max $451) →District of Columbia (max $444) →Maryland (max $430) →All 53 states →