Alabama Unemployment Calculator
Estimate your Alabama weekly unemployment benefit. Alabama's maximum is $275/week for up to 14 weeks. Results are estimates — Alabama Department of Labor makes the official determination.
Estimate My Weekly Benefit
This is an estimate only. Your actual benefit depends on your specific base period wages, employer records, and Alabama Department of Labor's determination. File your claim to get the official amount.
File your Alabama claim at Alabama UI Claims →Alabama unemployment benefits: what you need to know
Alabama has one of the shorter maximum benefit durations at 14 weeks, which can extend to 20 weeks when the state unemployment rate rises above certain thresholds. Filing quickly matters more here than in most states.
Alabama pays a maximum of $275/week and a minimum of $45/week. Your amount is set by your base-period earnings, capped at the state maximum.
Up to 14 weeks under standard conditions. At the maximum rate, that is about $3,850 total.
Alabama has a one-week unpaid waiting period. File and certify for it anyway — payment begins the following eligible week.
3 contacts per week must be documented to stay eligible. Keep a dated log.
Alabama Unemployment FAQ
How much unemployment can I get in Alabama?
In Alabama, the maximum weekly benefit is $275 and the minimum is $45. Your actual weekly benefit amount is based on your earnings during your base period (typically the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters). Use the estimator above to get an approximate figure, then confirm the exact amount with Alabama Department of Labor after you file.
How long do unemployment benefits last in Alabama?
Alabama provides up to 14 weeks of regular unemployment benefits under standard conditions. Duration in this state can vary with the statewide unemployment rate — verify the current maximum when you file. If you exhaust regular benefits, ask Alabama Department of Labor whether any extended programs are currently active.
Is there a waiting week for unemployment in Alabama?
Yes. Alabama imposes a one-week unpaid waiting period. You still need to file and certify for that week, but it is not paid. Payments begin from the second eligible week.
How many job search contacts are required each week in Alabama?
Alabama requires 3 work search contacts per week to remain eligible while collecting benefits. Keep a dated log of each activity (employer name, date, method of contact) in case Alabama Department of Labor audits your claim.
How do I file an unemployment claim in Alabama?
File with Alabama Department of Labor online at https://workforce.alabama.gov/unemployment/ or by phone at 1-866-234-5382. Have your Social Security number, employer information for the last 18 months, reason for separation, and bank details for direct deposit ready. File the same week you lose your job — most states pay from the week you file, not the week your job ended.