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Unemployment benefits in District of Columbia

In District of Columbia, the weekly unemployment benefit runs from $50 to $444, for 26 weeks for every eligible claimant, according to the U.S. Department of Labor summary effective July 2026.

How to fileFind work in District of Columbia

At a glance

$444maximum weekly benefit
$50minimum weekly benefit
26weeks, the same for every eligible claimant
Stateprogram: there is no federal unemployment program

Source: U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration — Significant Provisions of State Unemployment Insurance Laws, effective July 2026 , checked 2026-10-20.

How to file

  1. File in the state where you worked

    USAGov says that in most cases you file in the state where you worked, not where you live. If you worked in another state or remotely, contact your home state's unemployment office for help.

  2. Open District of Columbia's official unemployment office

    Find District of Columbia's unemployment office on the U.S. Department of Labor's CareerOneStop map . You may be able to file online or by phone.

  3. Keep looking for work while you claim

    Many states require you to look for a new job to keep receiving benefits (USAGov).

  4. Protect your claim from scams

    Unemployment scams — USAGov . Only file on your state's official site.

  5. Keep your health coverage

    COBRA health insurance — USAGov .

Find work in District of Columbia

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Step-by-step paths to more income Minimum wage in District of Columbia

The Department of Labor table is a summary, not an official interpretation of state law, and it does not include extensions or special programs. Your state decides your eligibility and your exact weekly amount. General information, not legal advice. State unemployment law information — U.S. Department of Labor .