West Virginia Unemployment Calculator.
Estimate your weekly benefit using WorkForce West Virginia's official 2026 formula.
West Virginia Calculator
West Virginia Benefits — 2026
How West Virginia calculates your benefit.
West Virginia 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 ($24) / max ($424) caps
WBA = max($24, min(HQ ÷ 26, $424))
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 $2,200 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 West Virginia?
File online at WorkForce West Virginia
Estimates only. Actual benefits determined by WorkForce West Virginia based on official wage records. Data sourced from DOL Significant Provisions · Last verified 2026-01-15 · Not affiliated with any government agency.