Pennsylvania Unemployment Calculator
Estimate your Pennsylvania weekly unemployment benefit. Pennsylvania's maximum is $605/week for up to 26 weeks. Results are estimates — Pennsylvania Office of Unemployment Compensation 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 Pennsylvania Office of Unemployment Compensation's determination. File your claim to get the official amount.
File your Pennsylvania claim at PA UC →Pennsylvania unemployment benefits: what you need to know
Pennsylvania is one of the largest UI systems in the country by claim volume. Dependency allowances are available for claimants with dependents, increasing the weekly payment. The Pittsburgh and Philadelphia metros generate significant tech and finance layoff claims. Processing times can be longer than average due to volume.
Pennsylvania pays a maximum of $605/week and a minimum of $68/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 $15,730 total.
Pennsylvania 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.
Pennsylvania Unemployment FAQ
How much unemployment can I get in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, the maximum weekly benefit is $605 and the minimum is $68. 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 Pennsylvania Office of Unemployment Compensation after you file.
How long do unemployment benefits last in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania Office of Unemployment Compensation whether any extended programs are currently active.
Is there a waiting week for unemployment in Pennsylvania?
Yes. Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania Office of Unemployment Compensation audits your claim.
How do I file an unemployment claim in Pennsylvania?
File with Pennsylvania Office of Unemployment Compensation online at https://www.uc.pa.gov/ or by phone at 888-313-7284. 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.