New Maximum Weekly Unemployment Benefit Effective Oct. 3

The maximum unemployment benefit increases from $537 to $555, effective Oct.3. The new rate applies to claims filed for the benefit year starting on and after Oct. 3, 2010. Individuals who established a claim prior to Oct. 3 and who have been collecting unemployment benefits will be unaffected by the increase. The weekly dependency allowance: $15 for each dependent, with a maximum of $75: remains unchanged.