Texas Unemployment Benefits (2026): Weekly Amount, Duration & Calculator
As of January 1, 2026, unemployment benefits in Texas range from $75 to $605 per week, payable for 10–26 weeks. Your weekly benefit amount is 1/25 of your high-quarter wages, capped at 47.6% of the state average weekly wage.
Estimate your weekly benefit
How Texas calculates your benefit
Weekly benefit amount: 1/25 of your high-quarter wages, capped at 47.6% of the state average weekly wage.
To qualify (earnings requirement): 37 × your WBA, with wages in at least 2 quarters. You must also be unemployed through no fault of your own, and be able to work, available for work, and actively seeking work.
Total benefits on the claim: The lesser of 27% of base-period wages or 26 × WBA.
Working part-time: the Texas partial-benefit rule
If you work reduced hours, Texas disregards part of your earnings before reducing your check: The greater of $5 or ¼ of your WBA. Use the calculator to see what a part-time week would pay.
How Texas compares
Texas's $605 maximum ranks #29 of 53 U.S. jurisdictions. The highest maximums nationally:
- Washington — up to $1,152/week
- Massachusetts — up to $1,105/week
- New Jersey — up to $905/week
- Oregon — up to $872/week
- New York — up to $869/week
See the full state-by-state table.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum unemployment benefit in Texas?
The maximum weekly benefit amount in Texas is $605 as of January 1, 2026, payable for 10–26 weeks.
How is the weekly benefit calculated in Texas?
1/25 of your high-quarter wages, capped at 47.6% of the state average weekly wage. The result is capped between $75 and $605 per week.
Can I work part-time and still get unemployment in Texas?
Yes, if you earn less than your weekly benefit amount and remain otherwise eligible. Texas disregards the following before reducing your check: The greater of $5 or ¼ of your WBA.
Does severance affect unemployment in Texas?
It depends on how the severance is characterized and paid. Some states delay or reduce benefits during weeks covered by severance or wages in lieu of notice; others do not. Report any severance when you file and let the agency make the determination — see our severance guide for how this generally works.
How long do unemployment benefits last in Texas?
Between 10 and 26 weeks of regular benefits, depending on your earnings history.