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Texas Unemployment Benefits Calculator (2026 Weekly Amount)

Texas calculates your weekly unemployment check with a simple rule: your weekly benefit amount is the wages you earned in the highest-paid quarter of your base period, divided by 25, subject to a state minimum and maximum that the Texas Workforce Commission updates each year. This calculator applies that rule so you know what to expect before you file.

Reviewed 2026-08-27 · Estimates only — not legal or financial advice.

The 3-month calendar quarter of your base period in which you earned the most, before taxes.
The law behind this calculator: Texas Workforce Commission — unemployment benefits — Tex. Labor Code § 207.002; TWC benefit schedule.

How Texas calculates it

  • Your base period is the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you file — roughly the year of earnings ending 3–6 months ago.
  • The TWC takes the quarter with your highest wages and divides it by 25 to get your weekly benefit amount.
  • The result is bounded by the state minimum and maximum weekly amounts for the current year.
  • Regular benefits last up to 26 weeks; your total available benefit is the lesser of 26 × your weekly amount or 27% of all base-period wages.
  • To qualify you must have earned wages in at least two quarters, be unemployed through no fault of your own, and be able, available, and actively searching for work.

Worked example

You earned $12,500 in your best quarter (about $50,000/year, evenly spread). $12,500 ÷ 25 = $500/week — inside the state's bounds, so your estimated check is $500 for up to 26 weeks.

Frequently asked questions

How much does Texas unemployment pay in 2026?

Between the state minimum and maximum per week, depending on your past wages. If your highest quarter divided by 25 lands between those bounds, that's your check. The TWC publishes the current bounds each year.

Do I qualify if I quit my job?

Usually not — benefits require job loss through no fault of your own. Exceptions exist for documented good cause connected with the work, such as unsafe conditions or a significant unilateral pay cut, and for certain personal reasons like family violence.

Is there a waiting week in Texas?

Yes. The first payable week is held and is only paid to you at the end of your claim if you return to full-time work and request it.

Are Texas unemployment benefits taxable?

Federally, yes — unemployment compensation is taxable income and you can elect 10% federal withholding. Texas has no state income tax, so nothing is owed to the state.

Can I work part-time and still collect?

Yes. You can earn up to 25% of your weekly benefit amount with no reduction; earnings above that reduce your check dollar for dollar.

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