New York Unemployment Calculator.
Estimate your weekly benefit using New York State Department of Labor's official 2026 formula.
2026 Update: Max WBA increased from $504 to $869 effective October 8, 2025 — first increase since 2019.
New York Calculator
New York Benefits — 2026
How New York calculates your benefit.
New York uses the Highest Quarter ÷ 26 method to determine your Weekly Benefit Amount (WBA). The calculation uses wages from your base period — typically the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you file.
Formula
1. Find the highest-earning quarter
2. Divide by 26
3. Apply min ($116) / max ($869) caps
WBA = max($116, min(HQ ÷ 26, $869))
Base Period
Standard: First 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before filing. If you file in May 2026, your base period is Jan–Dec 2025.
Eligibility requirements.
Minimum earnings: You must have earned at least $2,900 during your base period.
Job separation: Must have lost your job through no fault of your own (layoff, reduction in force, position eliminated).
Able and available: You must be physically able to work and actively seeking employment.
Ready to file in New York?
File online at New York State Department of Labor
Estimates only. Actual benefits determined by New York State Department of Labor based on official wage records. Data sourced from DOL Significant Provisions · Last verified 2026-01-15 · Not affiliated with any government agency.