How much is unemployment benefit amount through DUA in Massachusetts?

For DUA in Massachusetts, your weekly benefit amount is calculated as roughly 50% of your average weekly wage during your base period, up to a state maximum. For 2025, the maximum weekly benefit is $1,015. With your salary of $65k, you'd likely get close to that maximum since your weekly gross would be around $1,250.

Yeah the base period is usually the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you file. So if you file in early 2025, they'd look at Q1-Q4 of 2024. Make sure you have all your wage info ready when you apply through the DUA online system.

One thing to keep in mind is that you'll also need to meet the job search requirements to keep getting benefits. DUA requires you to make at least 3 work search contacts per week and keep a log. It's not just about the money - there are ongoing obligations to maintain eligibility.

I had trouble getting through to DUA when I needed to check on my claim status last year. Phone lines are always busy and the online system can be glitchy. If you need to actually talk to someone, I found claimyr.com really helpful - they have a service that helps you get through to DUA agents. There's a video demo at https://youtu.be/ok4BhTU0_EI that shows how it works. Saved me hours of calling and getting disconnected.

Also remember you can't just quit your job and collect unemployment. You have to be laid off or terminated through no fault of your own. If you quit voluntarily, DUA will likely disqualify you unless you can prove it was for good cause like unsafe working conditions or harassment.

Thanks for asking this question - I'm in a similar situation and this thread has been really informative. One additional thing I'd mention is that Massachusetts also has a partial unemployment benefit if you're working reduced hours but not completely unemployed. If your layoff ends up being a reduction in hours instead of a full termination, you might still be eligible for some benefits. The calculation gets more complex but it's worth knowing about. Also, don't forget that unemployment benefits are taxable income, so you'll want to either have taxes withheld or set aside money for tax time.

Just wanted to add that if you do end up filing for unemployment, make sure you file your claim as soon as possible after your last day of work. There's no waiting period to file in Massachusetts, and benefits are calculated from the week you file, not from when you actually lost your job. I made the mistake of waiting a few weeks thinking I'd find something quickly, and I lost out on those early weeks of benefits. Also, keep all your termination paperwork - DUA will want details about why you were laid off, your last day worked, any severance pay, etc. The more documentation you have ready, the smoother the process will be.

One more thing to consider - if you're anticipating a layoff, it might be worth reaching out to MassHire (the state's workforce development system) even before you lose your job. They offer free career counseling, resume help, and job search assistance that can complement your unemployment benefits. Some of their workshops and training programs can even count toward your required job search activities once you're on unemployment. I found their services really helpful when I was between jobs last year - they have offices throughout the state and a lot of virtual options too. Getting a head start on networking and skill building while you're still employed could help shorten your time on unemployment benefits.

This is such a comprehensive thread - thank you everyone for sharing your experiences! As someone who went through the DUA system in Massachusetts last year, I can confirm a lot of what's been said here. One thing I'd add is to make sure you understand the difference between your "weekly benefit rate" and what you'll actually receive. Even if you qualify for the maximum $1,015, you might get less if you have any earnings from part-time work, pension payments, or other factors that can reduce your weekly benefit. Also, if you end up needing to appeal any DUA decisions, don't wait - you only have 10 days from the determination date to file an appeal. The appeals process can take months, so it's crucial to file within that window even if you're still gathering documentation. I learned this the hard way when I initially got denied and almost missed the deadline. The system can be frustrating but persistence pays off.