Arkansas Unemployment Calculator
Estimate your Arkansas weekly unemployment benefit. Arkansas's maximum is $451/week for up to 16 weeks. Results are estimates — Arkansas Division of Workforce Services 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 Arkansas Division of Workforce Services's determination. File your claim to get the official amount.
File your Arkansas claim at DWS Online UI →Arkansas unemployment benefits: what you need to know
Arkansas caps benefit duration at 16 weeks, among the shorter limits nationally. The maximum weekly benefit is relatively generous for a Southern state, but claimants have fewer total weeks to use it.
Arkansas pays a maximum of $451/week and a minimum of $81/week. Your amount is set by your base-period earnings, capped at the state maximum.
Up to 16 weeks under standard conditions. At the maximum rate, that is about $7,216 total.
Arkansas 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.
Arkansas Unemployment FAQ
How much unemployment can I get in Arkansas?
In Arkansas, the maximum weekly benefit is $451 and the minimum is $81. 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 Arkansas Division of Workforce Services after you file.
How long do unemployment benefits last in Arkansas?
Arkansas provides up to 16 weeks of regular unemployment benefits under standard conditions. If you exhaust regular benefits, ask Arkansas Division of Workforce Services whether any extended programs are currently active.
Is there a waiting week for unemployment in Arkansas?
Yes. Arkansas 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 Arkansas?
Arkansas 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 Arkansas Division of Workforce Services audits your claim.
How do I file an unemployment claim in Arkansas?
File with Arkansas Division of Workforce Services online at https://dws.arkansas.gov/unemployment/ or by phone at 1-844-908-2178. 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.