• Use the Unemployment Calculator

Disclaimer

Use this calculator to see whether you may be eligible for unemployment benefits and to estimate the unemployment benefits that you may receive. This is only a screening tool, and it does not guarantee you any benefits. If you receive a different result from your filed claim, check the accuracy of the numbers you entered here, and then check the employer's numbers on which your claim was decided. You may then request a hearing within 10 days of the date of the agency's written decision and present your check stubs, W-2 forms, or other financial proof at or before the hearing. You may also call your local Legal Services office or the LSNJ Hotline for possible further assistance as noted below. Note: You must have JavaScript enabled in your browser for this calculator to work.

• File an online application for unemployment benefits (from the N.J. Department of Labor)

Unemployment Benefits Calculator Help

1. Why would I want to change the date I apply for benefits?
   
   The date that you apply determines the time period in which your income is counted. If your benefits are not already the maximum amount, and you made more money at a later point, applying later could raise your benefit level.
   
   
2. Do the weeks worked have to all be in a row ("back-to-back" or consecutive)?
   
   No. It is OK if you did not work during some of the weeks of the year used to calculate your benefits. Just type in the number of weeks during that year that you did work.
   
   
3. How do I figure out what my income was for the listed period of time?
   
   The most accurate way to figure out your income would be to look at your paystubs for each week and add up the amounts. However, it is OK to estimate when you are using this calculator.
   
   
4. What if I am getting information from my tax return or W-2 forms?
   
   If you are using tax returns or W-2 forms, only include the part of your gross (pre-tax) income that falls within the time periods stated in this calculator.
   
   
5. Who can I count as my dependents?
   
   For purposes of unemployment you can claim as dependents:
   • a legally married spouse who is unemployed and is a dependent; and/or
   • dependent unmarried children (this does not include foster children) who are under the age of 19, or under the age of 22 and attending school on a full-time basis
     
     
6. What if I am self-employed?
   
   You can find information about the Self-Employment Assistance (SEA) Program on the New Jersey Department of Labor Web site.