California Unemployment Calculator (EDD Weekly Benefit)
Benefits run from $40 to $450 a week, based on your highest-earning quarter. The maximum has not changed since 2005.
Your weekly benefit is your highest base-period quarter's wages divided by 26, ranging from $40 to $450/week, payable for up to 26 weeks.
Enter your highest-earning quarter's total wages to estimate your weekly benefit.
EDD Unemployment Benefit Calculator
Estimated Weekly Benefit
Max Total (26 weeks)
How this is calculated
Weekly benefit = your highest base-period quarter's total wages ÷ 26, with a minimum of $40 and a maximum of $450. You reach the $450 maximum with about $11,700 in your best quarter, roughly $3,900 a month. That is a modest income today, because the maximum has not been raised since 2005.
Your total maximum benefit for the claim is the lesser of 26 times your weekly amount, or half of your total base-period wages, payable over up to 26 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum unemployment benefit in California?
$450 per week. The maximum has not changed since 2005 while wages have grown, so the benefit now replaces a smaller share of pay for higher earners than it used to.
How is my weekly unemployment benefit calculated?
EDD looks at your highest-earning quarter within a 12-month base period and divides those wages by 26. If that calculation exceeds $450, you're capped at $450; if it's below $40, you generally don't qualify for a weekly benefit at all.
How long can I collect unemployment benefits in California?
Up to 26 weeks in a standard benefit year, though extended benefits can sometimes become available during periods of high statewide unemployment under separate federal/state programs.
What determines my base period?
Generally the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you filed your claim. An alternate base period can sometimes apply if you don't have enough wages in the standard base period.
Do I need to have been fired to qualify for unemployment?
No. Being laid off, having your position eliminated, or in some cases quitting for good cause can all potentially qualify. Being fired for misconduct generally disqualifies you, but the specific facts matter.
This tool provides an educational estimate only and is not affiliated with the EDD. File your claim and get an official determination at edd.ca.gov.