How Much Are North Dakota Unemployment Benefits?

Unemployment insurance offers a temporary financial bridge for individuals who become unemployed through no fault of their own, providing a partial replacement of lost wages. This joint federal and state program helps stabilize personal finances during job transitions. This article focuses on the North Dakota unemployment system, guiding readers through the criteria for receiving assistance, how benefit amounts are determined, the application steps, and the ongoing obligations required to maintain eligibility.

Eligibility for Unemployment Benefits

To qualify for unemployment benefits in North Dakota, an individual must meet several specific criteria, starting with the reason for separation from employment. Eligibility generally applies to those who are unemployed due to circumstances outside their control, such as a layoff or a reduction in force. Voluntarily leaving a job without good cause or being terminated for misconduct typically disqualifies an applicant from receiving benefits.

A claimant must also satisfy monetary requirements, demonstrating a sufficient work history and earnings during a defined period. In North Dakota, this is assessed using a “base period,” which typically covers the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters immediately preceding the claim’s effective date. During this base period, an individual must have earned wages in at least two of the quarters. The total wages earned throughout the entire base period must be at least 1.5 times the wages earned in the highest-paid quarter.

Beyond the earnings requirements, claimants must be physically able to work, available for suitable employment, and actively seeking new work opportunities. Job Service North Dakota also requires that the former employer must have contributed to the state’s unemployment insurance tax system for the claimant’s wages to be considered.

Determining Your Weekly Benefit Amount and Duration

The specific amount of weekly unemployment benefits in North Dakota is calculated based on an individual’s past earnings during the base period. The weekly benefit amount (WBA) is determined by taking the total wages earned in the highest two-and-a-half quarters of the base period and dividing that sum by 65.

North Dakota establishes both a minimum and maximum weekly benefit amount. As of 2025, the maximum weekly benefit amount is $786, while the minimum weekly benefit amount is $43. If a claimant’s calculated WBA exceeds the maximum, they will receive the maximum allowable amount. The total duration for which benefits can be received also varies, typically ranging from 12 to 26 weeks.

The precise number of weeks an individual can receive benefits is determined by their total base period wages relative to their highest-earning quarter. A one-week waiting period is required before benefits can begin, meaning the first week of an approved claim is unpaid. Any income received, such as severance pay, may affect the timing or amount of benefits received, as it can be considered when calculating the benefit offset.

Applying for Unemployment Benefits

The process of formally applying for unemployment benefits in North Dakota is primarily conducted through online or telephone channels. The Job Service North Dakota’s UI ICE internet site is the preferred method for filing an initial claim. Alternatively, claims can be filed by calling the automated telephone system at 701-328-4995.

Before initiating the application, gather necessary documentation and information. Applicants should have their Social Security number readily available. They will also need comprehensive details for all employers worked for in the last 18 months, including:
Employer names, addresses, and phone numbers
Specific start and end dates of employment for each position
Reason for separation from each employer
Union local name and number (if applicable)
Military service documents (DD214) or federal civilian service documents (SF8, SF50) (if applicable)
Alien identification number (for non-U.S. citizens authorized to work)
Bank account information for direct deposit of benefits

It is important to file the claim during the week unemployment begins, as claims cannot be backdated.

Maintaining Your Unemployment Benefits

Once an initial application for unemployment benefits is approved, claimants have ongoing responsibilities to ensure continued receipt of payments. A primary requirement is to file weekly or bi-weekly certifications, which verify ongoing eligibility. During these certifications, individuals must accurately report any earnings from part-time work, confirm their ability and availability to work, and detail their work search activities.

North Dakota requires claimants to engage in an active work search, involving a minimum of four verifiable job contacts per week. A detailed log of these contacts, including employer information and the date of contact, must be maintained. Claimants are also required to register for work and create at least one online resume at jobsnd.com within 10 days of filing their claim.

Reporting any earnings from part-time employment is essential, as failure to do so can lead to overpayments and penalties. North Dakota specifically disregards 60% of an individual’s weekly benefit amount when factoring in income from part-time work. Promptly responding to all communications from Job Service North Dakota is also important, as these may include requests for additional information or notification of appeal rights if a claim decision is disputed.