Maryland Unemployment Calculator
Estimate your Maryland weekly unemployment benefit. Maryland's maximum is $430/week for up to 26 weeks. Results are estimates — Maryland Division of Unemployment Insurance 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 Maryland Division of Unemployment Insurance's determination. File your claim to get the official amount.
File your Maryland claim at BEACON →Maryland unemployment benefits: what you need to know
Maryland's BEACON portal launched in 2020 and replaced a legacy system. Government and federal contractor workers make up a large portion of claimants in the DC metro corridor. Processing times can be slower for claims involving federal contractors.
Maryland pays a maximum of $430/week and a minimum of $50/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 $11,180 total.
Maryland 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.
Maryland Unemployment FAQ
How much unemployment can I get in Maryland?
In Maryland, the maximum weekly benefit is $430 and the minimum is $50. 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 Maryland Division of Unemployment Insurance after you file.
How long do unemployment benefits last in Maryland?
Maryland provides up to 26 weeks of regular unemployment benefits under standard conditions. If you exhaust regular benefits, ask Maryland Division of Unemployment Insurance whether any extended programs are currently active.
Is there a waiting week for unemployment in Maryland?
Yes. Maryland 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 Maryland?
Maryland 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 Maryland Division of Unemployment Insurance audits your claim.
How do I file an unemployment claim in Maryland?
File with Maryland Division of Unemployment Insurance online at https://labor.maryland.gov/employment/unemployment.shtml or by phone at 800-827-4839. 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.