2026 · West Virginia
West Virginia unemployment benefits
West Virginia pays up to $662 a week for up to 26 weeks, a middle-of-the-pack maximum (#17 of 51). Estimate yours below.
Only some states pay a dependent allowance.
An estimate only, your state agency sets your actual benefit. Nothing you enter is stored.
West Virginia's 2026 figures
| Weekly benefit range | $24 - $662 |
| Maximum duration | 26 weeks (uniform 26) |
| Waiting week | Yes, one unpaid week |
| How it's figured | annual wages |
| Taxed by West Virginia? | Yes |
Worked example: a $60,000 earner in West Virginia
On a $60,000 prior wage, the estimate is about $577 a week (within West Virginia's $24-$662 range). Over 26 weeks that's up to $15,002 in total. West Virginia has an unpaid one-week waiting week, so your first payment covers the second week you claim.
Questions about West Virginia unemployment
How much does West Virginia pay in unemployment?
Between $24 and $662 a week in 2026, based on your prior wages (annual wages). The $662 maximum is a middle-of-the-pack maximum (#17 of 51).
How long does West Virginia unemployment last?
Up to 26 weeksuniform 26. That's separate from the weekly amount; low earners may qualify for fewer weeks.
Is West Virginia unemployment taxed?
Federally, yes, it's ordinary income (elect 10% withholding on Form W-4V). West Virginia also taxes it on the state return.
Does severance affect my West Virginia unemployment?
Filing timing can matter. Some states delay or reduce unemployment while severance is being paid, and the rule varies. West Virginia's treatment is not modeled here, confirm the timing with WorkForce West Virginia before you file, since it is a real-money decision.
File with WorkForce West Virginia. This is an estimate, WorkForce West Virginia determines your actual benefit.
Your West Virginia layoff toolkit
- West Virginia severance tax the tax on your severance
- Runway calculator how long your money lasts
- West Virginia paycheck calculator your take-home when you're back at work
- West Virginia 1099 tax if you go freelance or contract
An estimate, West Virginia's agency determines your actual benefit. Figures from the verified 2026 dataset, last verified 2026-07-24. Nothing you enter is stored. Not tax or legal advice.