Independent benefit estimator — not affiliated with any government agency. Estimates only.
✳AfterLayoff
Unemployment calculator  →  Vermont

Vermont Unemployment Calculator (2026)

In 2026, Vermont unemployment benefits range from $94 to $757 a week, one of the higher maximums in New England. Depending on your work history, benefits last between 23 and 26 weeks.

Data verified 2026-07-04Source: US DOL + state statuteEffective 2026-01-01
Weekly benefit range
$94 – $757
Duration
23–26 weeks
Formula
two highest quarters ÷ 45
Apply with
Vermont's unemployment agency official
The actual rule

How Vermont calculates it

Vermont adds up your wages from your two highest-earning quarters and divides the total by 45. For example, if your two best quarters add up to $22,500, your weekly benefit is $22,500 divided by 45, which is $500.

The weekly benefit is at least $94 and at most $757 in 2026. Vermont does not pay a dependents allowance, so your amount is based only on your own wages.

How long benefits last depends on your earnings. Your total benefit pool is the lesser of 46% of your base-period wages or 26 times your weekly benefit. For most people this works out to between 23 and 26 weeks. To qualify money-wise, your total base-period wages must be at least 1.4 times your highest quarter, and you need at least $3,739 in that highest quarter.

two highest quarters ÷ 45, clamped to $94 – $757
Source: US DOL “Significant Provisions of State UI Laws” (Jan 2026) + state statute · verified 2026-07-04
Qualifying

Do you qualify in Vermont?

To qualify in Vermont, you need at least $3,739 in wages in your highest-earning quarter, and your total base-period wages must be at least 1.4 times that highest quarter. In other words, your earnings need to be spread out, not packed into a single quarter. 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 while claiming. The state agency makes the final call on every claim.

Maximum total benefit: Lesser of 46% BPW or 26 x WBA.

Common questions

Vermont unemployment, in plain language

How much unemployment will I get in Vermont? +
In 2026, Vermont pays between $94 and $757 a week, based on your past wages. Your weekly benefit is your two highest-earning quarters combined, divided by 45.
How long does unemployment last in Vermont? +
Between 23 and 26 weeks, depending on your earnings. Your total benefit pool is the lesser of 46% 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 Vermont? +
Vermont adds up your wages from your two highest quarters and divides by 45. For example, $22,500 in combined wages from your two best quarters gives you a $500 weekly benefit. The result is capped between $94 and $757 in 2026.
Can I work part-time and still get unemployment in Vermont? +
Yes. Vermont disregards 50% of your gross wages for the week; the rest reduces your weekly benefit. If you earn too much, you get no benefit for that week. Always report all work and gross earnings on your weekly claim.
Who qualifies for unemployment in Vermont? +
You need at least $3,739 in your highest-earning quarter, and total base-period wages of at least 1.4 times that quarter. 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. Vermont's unemployment agency reviews and decides every claim.
Is unemployment taxable in Vermont? +
Yes, unemployment benefits count as taxable income on your federal return. You can request federal income tax 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.
What if my unemployment claim in Vermont is denied? +
You can appeal the decision. Appeal deadlines are usually short, so act quickly once you receive the notice. Check with Vermont's unemployment agency for the exact steps and time limits, and keep filing weekly claims while your appeal is pending.
Compare

States with similar benefits

Colorado (max $767) →Montana (max $767) →Rhode Island (max $745) →Connecticut (max $721) →All 53 states →