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Illinois Unemployment Benefits Calculator

Estimate your weekly unemployment benefit in Illinois. Max: $628/week for up to 26 weeks.

Enter your quarterly wages (base period)

The base period is typically the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before your claim.

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Don't know your quarterly wages? Estimate from annual salary
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+$231/dependent per week (max 1)

⚠️ This calculator provides estimates for educational purposes only. It is not financial, tax, or legal advice. Your actual results may vary.

Illinois Unemployment Information

Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES)

Agency website →

File a Claim

Apply for benefits →

Key Facts

  • Payment frequency: biweekly
  • Employee contribution required: No
  • Waiting period: 1 week
  • Duration: 26 weeks
← All StatesIllinois Official Source →

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I eligible for unemployment in Illinois?
To qualify in Illinois, 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 Illinois?
Yes, but your benefits will be reduced. Illinois's rule: 50% of weekly benefit amount disregard; earnings above reduce dollar-for-dollar. You must report all earnings weekly, including contract/freelance income.
Does Illinois offer extra unemployment benefits for dependents?
Yes. Illinois adds $231 per dependent per week (up to 1 dependents) on top of your base weekly benefit. Your combined benefit with dependents can reach up to $859/week. This allowance applies even if your base benefit is at the $628 maximum.
How long do unemployment benefits last in Illinois?
Illinois provides up to 26 weeks of unemployment benefits for eligible workers.
How much unemployment will I get in Illinois?
Illinois calculates your weekly benefit using the formula: (two highest quarter wages × 47%) / 26. The maximum weekly benefit is $628 and the minimum is $51.

Related Resources

Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) - Official Website

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

Illinois Unemployment Benefits - Official Filing Portal

Official Illinois unemployment insurance filing portal administered by Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES).

Illinois Unemployment Benefits - Official Rates & Rules

Official source for Illinois unemployment benefit rates, formulas, and eligibility rules for 2026. Maximum weekly benefit: $628.

IRS - Unemployment Compensation Is Taxable

IRS guidance on reporting unemployment benefits as taxable income, Form 1099-G, and voluntary withholding options.

U.S. Department of Labor - Unemployment Insurance

Federal overview of the unemployment insurance system, including how the federal-state partnership works, FUTA tax information, and links to all state programs.

← All State Unemployment Calculators

Compare unemployment benefits across all 50 states