If you meet the minimum qualifying wages, then your weekly benefit amount will equal 1/21 of your high quarter wages. However, your weekly benefit amount cannot be more than the Maximum Benefit Weekly Benefit Amount, which is determined each year. For example, the maximum benefit weekly amount for 2002 is $395 a week. Your claim is good for one year; however, you can be paid for only 26 weeks of total unemployment.
If you have any earnings while you are receiving benefits, you may still qualify for the difference between your earnings over $50 and your Weekly Benefit Amount. You can earn up to $50 and still receive your full employment check. You need to have your employer complete a "Weekly Report of Low Earnings" to verify your earnings for the week. These forms are available at the unemployment insurance office.
