With the ever-changing employment landscape, it’s essential for individuals to grasp the details of unemployment benefit programs during times of job loss or transition.
In 2024, a number of states have stood out for their strong and creative unemployment benefit programs designed to help workers during difficult times.
These states are at the forefront of offering support to unemployed individuals, with improved financial benefits and extensive job training programs.
This article explores seven states known for their exceptional unemployment benefit programs, focusing on their unique features and impact on workforce resilience and economic stability.
Top 7 States Offers Unemployment Benefits 2024
Ohio
Unemployment benefits in Ohio are calculated at 50% of your average weekly wage from the base period.
The minimum weekly benefit is set at $157, with a possibility of a maximum benefit payment of $757 for individuals with dependents.
These benefits can be received for up to 26 weeks. Living in Ohio comes at a 6% discount compared to the national average.
New Mexico
During the third quarter of 2023, New Mexico’s annual gross domestic product (GDP) was reported to be $130.3 billion.
New Mexico boasts a cost of living that is 6% lower than the national average. The state’s unemployment benefits are determined based on a percentage of the average weekly wage in the highest-paid quarter of the base period.
The weekly benefit ranges from a minimum of $86 to a maximum of $511. Qualified individuals are entitled to benefits for a maximum of 26 weeks.
In addition, individuals with children under 18 will receive a $25 allowance per child for a maximum of two children.
Nevertheless, the dependent allowance must not surpass 50% of the weekly allowance.
Minnesota
In Minnesota, where the cost-of-living index is 94.1, unemployment benefits are available for up to 26 weeks.
The benefit amount is calculated as the greater of 50% of the highest quarterly earnings during the base period divided by 13, or 50% of the average weekly earnings during the base period.
In Minnesota, weekly unemployment benefits range from a minimum of $28 to a maximum of $890. As of Q3 2023, the state’s annual GDP stood at $446 billion.
Utah
Utah offers unemployment benefits for a period of 26 weeks, with an average benefit amounting to $391.
The state’s cost of living index stands at 101.5, slightly exceeding the national average.
As of Q3 2023, Utah’s annual real GDP reached $270.6 billion, and its population totals 3.38 million residents.
Iowa
In Iowa, where the cost of living is 10% lower than the national average, weekly unemployment benefits vary between $72 and $714 for eligible individuals.
The maximum duration of unemployment benefits in the state is capped at 16 weeks. Iowa’s annual GDP as of Q3 2023 is recorded at $231 billion.
Wyoming
In Wyoming, unemployment benefits are available for a maximum of 26 weeks and are calculated by dividing the earnings in the highest quarter of the base period by 25.
With a population of 0.58 million, the state’s annual GDP stands at $48.8 billion as of Q3 2023. Eligible individuals in Wyoming receive weekly benefits ranging from a minimum of $43 to a maximum of $595.
Any additional income earned while receiving unemployment benefits results in a 50% reduction in benefits.
Wyoming’s cost of living index is 92.8, reflecting a lower cost of living compared to the national average.
North Dakota
North Dakota offers unemployment benefits for a maximum of 26 weeks.
Residents in North Dakota who qualify can receive a weekly benefit that can range from $48 to $748.
The values are determined by calculating 1/65th of the total earnings in the two highest quarters and then adding it to half of the earnings in the third highest quarter.
People who earn extra income while receiving unemployment benefits will see a 60% decrease in their weekly payments.
North Dakota keeps track of a cost-of-living index of 94.6, which is lower than the national average.
