Vermont Unemployment Benefits

Vermont provides up to $705/week in unemployment benefits for 26 weeks. Benefits are calculated using two highest quarter wages / 45.

Why It Matters

Understanding Vermont'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.

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How It Works

Vermont calculates your Weekly Benefit Amount (WBA) using two highest quarter wages / 45. Benefits range from $44 to $705 per week for up to 26 weeks. Vermont Department of Labor administers the program.

Example

$50,000/year worker • Equal quarterly wages • 2026

Weekly

$555

benefit amount

Duration

26 wks

fixed

Total

$14,430

max benefits

Resources

Vermont Department of Labor - Official Website

Official Vermont unemployment insurance agency. Find eligibility requirements, benefit information, employer resources, and contact information.

Source: Vermont Department of Labor

Vermont Unemployment Benefits - Official Filing Portal

Official Vermont unemployment insurance filing portal administered by Vermont Department of Labor.

Source: Vermont Department of Labor

Vermont Unemployment Benefits - Official Rates & Rules

Official source for Vermont unemployment benefit rates, formulas, and eligibility rules for 2026. Maximum weekly benefit: $705.

Source: Vermont Department of Labor

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I eligible for unemployment in Vermont?

To qualify in Vermont, 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.

Can I do contract or part-time work and still collect unemployment in Vermont?

Yes, but your benefits will be reduced. Vermont's rule: 50% of gross weekly earnings disregarded; remaining 50% deducted dollar-for-dollar. You must report all earnings weekly, including contract/freelance income.

Yes, you can do contract or part-time work while collecting unemployment in Vermont, but your earnings will reduce your weekly benefit. Vermont's partial earnings rule: 50% of gross weekly earnings disregarded; remaining 50% deducted dollar-for-dollar. You must report all earnings for the week you performed the work (not when you received payment). If your earnings exceed your weekly benefit amount, you won't receive benefits for that week but your claim remains active. Important: independent contractor income counts as earnings and must be reported weekly.

How long do unemployment benefits last in Vermont?

Vermont provides up to 26 weeks of unemployment benefits for eligible workers.

How much unemployment will I get in Vermont?

Vermont calculates your weekly benefit using the formula: two highest quarter wages / 45. The maximum weekly benefit is $705 and the minimum is $44.

Is there a waiting period in Vermont?

No. Vermont does not require a waiting period. You can receive benefits starting from your first eligible week after filing.