Arizona Unemployment Benefits 2026

What are unemployment benefits in Arizona?

Unemployment benefits in Arizona provide temporary income replacement for workers who lose employment through no fault of their own. The program is funded by employer taxes and administered by the Arizona Department of Economic Security. Benefits provide partial wage replacement for up to 26 weeks (duration varies based on state unemployment rate) while eligible individuals search for new employment.

How much can I receive in unemployment benefits in Arizona?

Arizona’s weekly benefit amount is calculated as 4% of wages earned in your highest quarter during the base period. The minimum weekly benefit is $229 and the maximum is $320 for 2026. Your actual amount depends on your past earnings. For example, if you earned $20,000 in your highest quarter, your calculation would be $20,000 × 0.04 = $800, but you would receive the maximum of $320 per week since that exceeds the cap.

How long does it take to get unemployment benefits in Arizona?

The typical timeline from filing to first payment is 2-4 weeks. This includes claim processing time (7-10 business days), the mandatory one-week waiting period, and payment processing. If your claim requires additional investigation or employer response, processing may take longer. Continue filing weekly certifications during this period to avoid delays.

Can I work part-time and still receive unemployment in Arizona?

Yes, you can work part-time and potentially receive partial benefits. You must report all earnings when filing your weekly certification. If your weekly earnings are less than your weekly benefit amount, you may receive reduced benefits. If your earnings equal or exceed your weekly benefit amount for the week, no benefits are payable for that week. You must still complete work search requirements even when working part-time.

What disqualifies you from unemployment in Arizona?

Common disqualifications include: voluntary quit without good cause connected to employment, discharge for misconduct, refusal of suitable work without good cause, failure to actively seek work, making false statements to obtain benefits, and participation in a labor dispute. Most disqualifications last until you become reemployed and earn at least eight times your weekly benefit amount.

How do I file for unemployment in Arizona?

File online through the CACTUS portal at https://www.azui.com (available 24/7). You need your Social Security number, driver’s license or state ID, employment history for the past 18 months including employer names and addresses, dates of employment, and reason for separation. If you cannot file online, paper applications are available for download or you can get assistance at ARIZONA@WORK offices.

Are unemployment benefits taxable in Arizona?

Unemployment benefits are subject to federal income tax but not Arizona state income tax (Arizona has no state income tax). You will receive Form 1099-G by January 31 showing the total benefits paid. You can elect to have 10% federal income tax withheld from your weekly benefits through the CACTUS portal or by contacting DES.

How do I appeal an unemployment denial in Arizona?

You have 15 days from the mailing date of the determination to file an appeal. File online through your CACTUS account (fastest method), by mail, fax, or in-person at any DES office. Include your name, Social Security number, the determination you’re appealing, and your reason for disagreement. You will receive a hearing notice with the date, time, and instructions for participating in a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge.

What is the work search requirement in Arizona?

Arizona requires you to make at least 4 work search contacts on 4 different days each week. Qualifying activities include submitting job applications, attending interviews, attending job fairs, registering with employment agencies, creating resumes, and participating in ARIZONA@WORK services. You must document each activity and enter the information when filing your weekly certification.

How is the base period calculated in Arizona?

Arizona’s base period is the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before you file your claim. For example, if you file in January 2026, your base period would be the four quarters from October 2024 through September 2025. Only wages earned during this specific timeframe count toward determining your eligibility and benefit amount.

What is the waiting week in Arizona?

Arizona requires a one-week waiting period before benefits become payable. Your first week of unemployment is the waiting week, for which no benefits are paid. If you continue to be unemployed and meet all eligibility requirements, you will begin receiving benefits starting with your second week of unemployment. The waiting week is not retroactively payable.

Can I combine wages from multiple states?

Yes, Arizona allows wage combining. If you worked in multiple states during your base period, you can either file a claim in one state using only those wages, or file using combined wages from all states where you worked. The state where you file first determines which option you can use. Contact DES at 1-877-600-2722 for assistance with combined wage claims.

What happens if I refuse a job offer?

Refusing suitable work without good cause disqualifies you from receiving benefits until you become reemployed and earn at least eight times your weekly benefit amount. “Suitable work” considers your skills, experience, training, prior wages, commuting distance, and working conditions. Good cause for refusing work includes safety concerns, wages substantially below prevailing rate, or work requirements conflicting with religious beliefs.