Less than 26 weeks (extension, receive, apply, qualify)

[chaulk187]

If my total benefit amount is roughly 8700
and my weekly benefit amount is 425
That makes my total benefit amount only 20 weeks worth of benefits.
Why is that???

[Ariadne22]

Because your base period earnings did not qualify you for 26 weeks.

Because $8,700 divided by $425 = 20 weeks.

I assume you are in CA.

Have you read the CA handbook???? You should have received this with your Notice of UI Award.

http://www.edd.ca.gov/pdf_pub_ctr/de1275a.pdf - see pp. 4, 5 and 7.

Handbook clearly describes how your MAXIMUM BENEFIT AMOUNT is calculated.

CA takes total base period earnings and divides that by 50%. That is your MAXIMUM BENEFIT AMOUNT (50% of base period earnings).

Your WEEKLY BENEFIT AMOUNT is determined by high quarter earnings. Your WBA is $425.

Since CA has allotted you $8,700 (which means 50% of total base period earnings of $17,400), you divide your WBA into your Maximum Benefit Amount to arrive at number of weeks.

In short, CA pays 50% of total base period earnings NOT TO EXCEED 26x WBA.

In order for you to receive 26 weeks' benefits, total base period earnings would need to be $22,100 (26x$425x2).

[chaulk187]

I see that now...it was a bit confusing at first.

Thanks

[drclark1]

Can you apply for an extension if your base period is less than 26 weeks?

[Ariadne22]

Originally Posted by drclark1

Can you apply for an extension if your base period is less than 26 weeks?

There are NO extensions. Legislation expired 12/28/2013. Check your state website - you should know this. This old news.