Memorandum  PM 2026.01: New Maximum Weekly UI Benefit Amount

Date:	10/02/2026
Organization:	Department of Unemployment Assistance
Referenced Sources:	Mass. General Laws c.151A § 62A

Overview

The Department of Economic Research has provided notification that the maximum UI weekly benefit amount to be paid to any individual whose benefit year commences on or after the first Sunday in October 2026 and prior to the first Sunday in October 2027 will be $1,154.00. This amount will become effective for new benefit years beginning Sunday, October 4, 2026. This new maximum benefit amount does not include any dependency allowance payable to the claimant. The new amount was calculated in accordance with Section 29 of Chapter 151A of the Massachusetts General Laws.

This new maximum amount represents a $49.00 increase from the existing maximum benefit amount of $1,105.00. UI Staff may encounter questions as to how the amount is calculated. Staff should answer these questions by providing the information listed below. For any further questions, please consult a supervisor.

The rate is based on the following calculations:

• Average quarterly employment (number of jobs) for the four quarters ending March 2026 (UI Contributory only): 2,807,799.
• UI Contributory payroll for the 12 months ending March 2026: $293,062,825,250.
• Average annual wage: $104,374.56
• Average weekly wage: $2,007.20
• Maximum weekly benefit amount = average weekly wage x .575 ($1154.14) rounded to the next lowest dollar: = $1154.00