Ohio Unemployment Calculator: WBA, Eligibility & Duration

What Is the Ohio Unemployment Calculator?

The Ohio Unemployment Calculator is an online tool that estimates how much you could receive in unemployment benefits. It uses your wages, dependents, and work history to calculate:

• Your estimated weekly benefit amount (WBA) – the money you may get each week.
• Your maximum benefit amount (MBA) – the total you could collect during your claim.
• The duration of your benefits – how many weeks you may qualify for.
• The base period used – the timeframe your wages are reviewed from.

It’s important to note: this calculator gives an estimate only. The official decision comes from the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) after you submit your claim.

How the Calculator Works

The calculator uses Ohio unemployment rules to figure out your estimated benefits. Here’s what it takes into account:

1. Claim Start Date
   Your claim date determines your “base period,” which is the timeframe of wages used for eligibility. The calculator updates quarter labels automatically once you choose a date.
2. Qualifying Weeks Worked
   To be eligible, you must have worked at least 20 qualifying weeks during your base period.
3. Number of Dependents
   Ohio adjusts your weekly benefit based on how many dependents you support:
   • 0 dependents – maximum WBA: $564
   • 1–2 dependents – maximum WBA: $763
   • 3 or more dependents – maximum WBA: $851
4. Quarterly Wages
   You’ll enter your earnings for four quarters (roughly one year). These numbers determine your average weekly wage and overall eligibility.
5. Eligibility Check
   • Average weekly wage must be at least $328.
   • Total weeks worked must be 20 or more.
   • If you don’t qualify under the standard base period, the calculator will prompt you to check an alternate base period.

Example: Using the Ohio Unemployment Calculator

Let’s say you:

• Worked 25 qualifying weeks
• Earned about $6,200 per quarter
• Have two dependents

The calculator may show results like this:

• Base Period Used: Standard Base Period
• Estimated Weekly Benefit: $720
• Estimated Maximum Benefit: $18,720
• Estimated Duration: Up to 26 weeks

Again, these numbers are estimates, not guarantees.

Why Use the Calculator Before Filing?

• Plan your budget – Know what support you may receive each week.
• Check eligibility early – Avoid surprises when filing.
• Explore alternate periods – If you don’t qualify under one base period, you might under another.
• Quick and private – Run numbers yourself without waiting for an official determination.

Important Notes About Ohio Unemployment

• The calculator uses 2024–2025 benefit charts. Amounts may change in future years.
• You must apply with ODJFS to actually receive benefits.
• Weekly claims must be filed to keep receiving payments.
• Other factors, such as severance, part-time income, or disqualification, may affect your actual eligibility.