Ohio Unemployment Calculator
Estimate your Ohio weekly unemployment benefit. Ohio's maximum is $624/week for up to 26 weeks. Results are estimates — Ohio Department of Job and Family Services makes the official determination.
Estimate My Weekly Benefit
This is an estimate only. Your actual benefit depends on your specific base period wages, employer records, and Ohio Department of Job and Family Services's determination. File your claim to get the official amount.
File your Ohio claim at Ohio Unemployment →Ohio unemployment benefits: what you need to know
Ohio requires only 2 work search contacts per week. Manufacturing and automotive plant layoffs drive large wave events. The minimum weekly benefit is higher than most Midwest peers at $176. Ohio has also been affected by tech-sector layoffs in Columbus and Cincinnati.
Ohio pays a maximum of $624/week and a minimum of $176/week. Your amount is set by your base-period earnings, capped at the state maximum.
Up to 26 weeks under standard conditions. At the maximum rate, that is about $16,224 total.
Ohio has a one-week unpaid waiting period. File and certify for it anyway — payment begins the following eligible week.
2 contacts per week must be documented to stay eligible. Keep a dated log.
Ohio Unemployment FAQ
How much unemployment can I get in Ohio?
In Ohio, the maximum weekly benefit is $624 and the minimum is $176. Your actual weekly benefit amount is based on your earnings during your base period (typically the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters). Use the estimator above to get an approximate figure, then confirm the exact amount with Ohio Department of Job and Family Services after you file.
How long do unemployment benefits last in Ohio?
Ohio provides up to 26 weeks of regular unemployment benefits under standard conditions. If you exhaust regular benefits, ask Ohio Department of Job and Family Services whether any extended programs are currently active.
Is there a waiting week for unemployment in Ohio?
Yes. Ohio imposes a one-week unpaid waiting period. You still need to file and certify for that week, but it is not paid. Payments begin from the second eligible week.
How many job search contacts are required each week in Ohio?
Ohio requires 2 work search contacts per week to remain eligible while collecting benefits. Keep a dated log of each activity (employer name, date, method of contact) in case Ohio Department of Job and Family Services audits your claim.
How do I file an unemployment claim in Ohio?
File with Ohio Department of Job and Family Services online at https://unemployment.ohio.gov/ or by phone at 1-877-644-6562. Have your Social Security number, employer information for the last 18 months, reason for separation, and bank details for direct deposit ready. File the same week you lose your job — most states pay from the week you file, not the week your job ended.