North Dakota Unemployment Calculator
Estimate your North Dakota weekly unemployment benefit. North Dakota's maximum is $815/week for up to 26 weeks. Results are estimates — Job Service North Dakota 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 Job Service North Dakota's determination. File your claim to get the official amount.
File your North Dakota claim at Job Service ND Online →North Dakota unemployment benefits: what you need to know
North Dakota has a relatively high maximum weekly benefit driven by oil and gas wages in the Bakken region. Oil field layoffs create high-volume seasonal claim periods. The state's low general unemployment rate means processing is usually fast.
North Dakota pays a maximum of $815/week and a minimum of $43/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 $21,190 total.
North Dakota 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.
North Dakota Unemployment FAQ
How much unemployment can I get in North Dakota?
In North Dakota, the maximum weekly benefit is $815 and the minimum is $43. 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 Job Service North Dakota after you file.
How long do unemployment benefits last in North Dakota?
North Dakota provides up to 26 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 Job Service North Dakota whether any extended programs are currently active.
Is there a waiting week for unemployment in North Dakota?
Yes. North Dakota 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 North Dakota?
North Dakota 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 Job Service North Dakota audits your claim.
How do I file an unemployment claim in North Dakota?
File with Job Service North Dakota online at https://www.jobsnd.com/individuals/unemployment-insurance or by phone at 701-328-4995. 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.