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Unemployment calculator  →  Maine

Maine Unemployment Calculator (2026)

In 2026, Maine unemployment benefits range from $108 to $623 a week, and a generous dependents allowance can push the maximum as high as $1,090. Depending on your work history, benefits last between 15 and 26 weeks.

Data verified 2026-07-04Source: US DOL + state statuteEffective 2026-01-01
Weekly benefit range
$108 – $623
Duration
15–26 weeks
Formula
avg of two highest quarters ÷ 22
Apply with
Maine's unemployment agency official
The actual rule

How Maine calculates it

Maine averages your two highest-earning quarters and divides by 22. For example, if you earned $11,000 in each of your two best quarters, your average is $11,000, and $11,000 divided by 22 gives you a weekly benefit of $500.

The weekly benefit falls between $108 and $623. If you have dependents, Maine adds $25 per dependent, up to a total allowance of 75% of your weekly benefit. That is one of the most generous dependent add-ons in the country: with the full allowance, the maximum weekly payment reaches $1,090, and the minimum with dependents is $189.

How long benefits last depends on your earnings. Your total benefit pool is the lesser of one-third of your base-period wages or 26 times your weekly benefit. That works out to between 15 and 26 weeks for most people.

avg of two highest quarters ÷ 22, clamped to $108 – $623
Source: US DOL “Significant Provisions of State UI Laws” (Jan 2026) + state statute · verified 2026-07-04

Dependents: $25 per dependent up to 75% of WBA

Qualifying

Do you qualify in Maine?

To qualify in Maine, you need wages equal to at least twice the state average weekly wage in each of two different base-period quarters, and total base-period wages of at least six times the state average weekly wage. In plain terms: you need steady earnings spread across at least two quarters, not just one burst of income. You also 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. The state agency decides each claim.

Maximum total benefit: Lesser of 1/3 BPW or 26 x WBA.

Common questions

Maine unemployment, in plain language

How much unemployment will I get in Maine? +
In 2026, Maine pays between $108 and $623 a week based on your past wages. If you have dependents, you can receive $25 more per dependent (up to 75% of your weekly benefit), which can raise the maximum to $1,090 a week.
How long does unemployment last in Maine? +
Between 15 and 26 weeks, depending on your earnings. Your total benefit pool is the lesser of one-third of your base-period wages or 26 times your weekly benefit amount. Extensions may be available during periods of high unemployment.
How is the weekly benefit calculated in Maine? +
Maine takes the average of your two highest-earning quarters and divides by 22. For example, two quarters of $11,000 each gives you a $500 weekly benefit. The result is capped between $108 and $623 before any dependents allowance.
Is it true Maine unemployment can pay over $1,000 a week? +
Yes, but only with the maximum dependents allowance. The base maximum is $623 a week. Maine adds $25 per dependent, up to 75% of your weekly benefit, so a high earner with enough dependents can receive up to $1,090 a week in 2026.
Can I work part-time and still get unemployment in Maine? +
Yes. Maine disregards the first $123 you earn in a week; earnings above that reduce your weekly benefit. If you earn too much, you receive no benefit for that week. Always report all work and gross earnings on your weekly claim.
Who qualifies for unemployment in Maine? +
You need wages in at least two different quarters of your base period, each equal to at least twice the state average weekly wage, plus total base-period wages of at least six times that average. You also generally must be out of work through no fault of your own, able and available to work, and actively job searching. Maine's unemployment agency makes the final determination.
Is unemployment taxable in Maine? +
Yes, unemployment benefits are taxable income on your federal return. You can request federal withholding from your payments 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.
When should I apply for unemployment in Maine? +
Generally, it is best to file as soon as possible after your last day of work, since claims usually start from the week you file rather than the week you lost your job. Check with Maine's unemployment agency for exact filing steps and timing.
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