Alaska Unemployment Calculator: WBA, Eligibility & Duration

What Is the Alaska Unemployment Calculator?

The Alaska Unemployment Calculator is a free online tool designed to give workers an estimate of their unemployment benefits.

By entering details such as:

• Your claim start date
• Wages earned in the last four quarters
• Number of dependents (up to three)

…the calculator provides an estimate of:

• Weekly benefit amount
• Total maximum benefits
• Duration of benefits (weeks)
• Which base period was used (Standard or Alternate)

Keep in mind: this is only an estimate. The Alaska Department of Labor makes the final decision after you file your official unemployment claim.

How the Alaska Unemployment Calculator Works

The calculator uses Alaska’s unemployment benefit rules and formulas to process your inputs. Here’s a plain-English breakdown:

1. Claim Start Date
   • Your start date determines the “base period” (the 12-month timeframe the state uses to calculate your benefits).
2. Wages in the Last Four Quarters
   • You enter how much you earned in each quarter.
   • To qualify, you need at least $2,500 in wages and earnings from at least two different quarters.
3. Dependents
   • You can claim up to three dependents.
   • Each dependent adds $24 to your weekly benefit.
4. Calculations
   • The calculator checks eligibility.
   • It figures out your weekly benefit amount (WBA).
     • Alaska’s WBA ranges from $56 to $370 before dependent allowances.
   • It estimates the duration of benefits, usually 16–26 weeks, depending on your wage ratio.
   • It also shows the maximum benefit amount you can receive for your claim.

Example of a Calculation

Let’s say you earned the following in the past four quarters:

• Q1: $6,000
• Q2: $6,500
• Q3: $6,200
• Q4: $6,800

You have two dependents.

The calculator might show something like:

• Weekly Benefit: $418 (including dependents)
• Maximum Benefit: Around $9,000–$10,000
• Duration: 22 weeks
• Base Period: Standard Base Period

This estimate gives you a clear picture of what to expect before you file your claim.

Why Use the Alaska Unemployment Calculator?

Quick answers – Get an estimate in minutes without calling the state.
Plan your finances – Know how much you might receive each week.
Check eligibility – See if you meet Alaska’s requirements before filing.
Compare base periods – The tool checks both the Standard and Alternate Base Periods to give you the best estimate.

Things to Remember

• This tool cannot guarantee benefits. Only the Alaska Department of Labor can decide your actual claim.
• Entering accurate wage information is important. If you guess, your results may be misleading.
• Alaska requires that you actively look for work and meet all eligibility rules to continue receiving benefits.