Montana Unemployment Benefits
Montana provides up to $698/week in unemployment benefits for 8–28 weeks. Benefits are calculated using lower of: 1% of total base period wages or 1.9% of wages in two highest quarters.
Why It Matters
Understanding Montana's unemployment benefits helps you plan financially during job transitions, know what income replacement to expect, and ensure you file correctly to receive your full entitled benefit.
Try the calculator
Open Montana Unemployment Benefits Calculator →How It Works
Montana calculates your Weekly Benefit Amount (WBA) using lower of: 1% of total base period wages or 1.9% of wages in two highest quarters. Benefits range from $207 to $698 per week for up to 8–28 weeks. There is a 1-week unpaid waiting period before benefits begin. Montana Department of Labor & Industry, Unemployment Insurance Division administers the program.
Example
$50,000/year worker • Equal quarterly wages • 2026
Weekly
$500
benefit amount
Duration
28 wks
8-28 range
Total
$14,000
max benefits
Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I eligible for unemployment in Montana?
To qualify in Montana, you must have earned sufficient wages during your base period, been separated from work through no fault of your own, and be able and available for work. You must also meet ongoing work search requirements.
How long do unemployment benefits last in Montana?
Montana offers between 8 and 28 weeks of benefits depending on your work history and base period wages.
How much unemployment will I get in Montana?
Montana calculates your weekly benefit using the formula: Lower of: 1% of total base period wages OR 1.9% of wages in two highest quarters. The maximum weekly benefit is $698 and the minimum is $207.
Why does Montana have variable benefit duration?
Montana ties your benefit duration (8–28 weeks) to your base period earnings relative to your weekly benefit amount. Workers with more consistent employment history receive longer durations.
Key Terms
Last reviewed: 2027-07-01 • Applies to tax year: 2026