What is a base period for unemployment?
Understand which calendar quarters count, when an alternate base period may help, and how to enter actual wages.
Reviewed October 1, 2026 · General information
Your claim date sets the window
A standard unemployment base period usually uses the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters. The quarter containing the claim and the most recently completed quarter are left out. This is why a recent raise may not immediately increase your award.
An example across the year boundary
For a claim effective Sunday, October 4, 2026, the usual standard window is July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026. An alternate window, where the state permits it, generally uses October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026. The effective week may start before the day you file, which matters at a quarter boundary. Some states use a different standard window; follow the state agency’s determination.
Use covered gross wages
Gather the wages reported by your employer for each quarter. Enter all four amounts in the calculator, including zero for a quarter with no covered pay. The quick estimate assumes four equal 13-week quarters; uneven earnings can change both the weekly amount and monetary eligibility.
Check your state’s exceptions
Some states offer alternate or extended base periods. Federal, military, interstate and combined-wage claims may need different handling. Use the agency linked on your state page to confirm the claim period before filing.
Official reading.
State rules control your claim. Check the source date and your agency notice.