California Unemployment Calculator
Estimate your California weekly unemployment benefit. California's maximum is $450/week for up to 26 weeks. Results are estimates — California Employment Development Department 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 California Employment Development Department's determination. File your claim to get the official amount.
File your California claim at UI Online (EDD) →California unemployment benefits: what you need to know
California waived its waiting week permanently. However, EDD processes extremely high claim volumes, identity verification holds are common, and phone lines are notoriously difficult to reach. Filing online and saving every confirmation number is essential. Many claimants experience 3-8 week delays before the first payment.
California pays a maximum of $450/week and a minimum of $40/week. Your amount is set by your base-period earnings, capped at the state maximum.
Up to 26 weeks under standard conditions. At the maximum rate, that is about $11,700 total.
California has no unpaid waiting week. Eligible payments can begin from your first certified week.
3 contacts per week must be documented to stay eligible. Keep a dated log.
California Unemployment FAQ
How much unemployment can I get in California?
In California, the maximum weekly benefit is $450 and the minimum is $40. 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 California Employment Development Department after you file.
How long do unemployment benefits last in California?
California provides up to 26 weeks of regular unemployment benefits under standard conditions. If you exhaust regular benefits, ask California Employment Development Department whether any extended programs are currently active.
Is there a waiting week for unemployment in California?
No. California does not impose an unpaid waiting week — eligible payments can begin from your first certified week. File as soon as possible after your last day of work.
How many job search contacts are required each week in California?
California 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 California Employment Development Department audits your claim.
How do I file an unemployment claim in California?
File with California Employment Development Department online at https://edd.ca.gov/en/unemployment/ or by phone at 1-800-300-5616. 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.