IDES Benefits Calculation & Payment Processing

Question 1

What is the standard base period used to calculate unemployment insurance benefits in Illinois?

Accepted Answer

The first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before the benefit year begins

Answer

The last 4 completed calendar quarters before the claim is filed

Answer

The 12 calendar months immediately preceding the date of separation

Answer

Any 4 consecutive quarters chosen by the claimant within the last 2 years

Question 2

Under Illinois UI law, a claimant who cannot qualify using the standard base period may use the alternative base period. What quarters does the alternative base period cover?

Accepted Answer

The last four completed calendar quarters immediately preceding the start of the benefit year

Answer

The four calendar quarters immediately preceding the date of separation

Answer

Any two high-wage quarters within the last three years

Answer

The two most recent quarters plus two additional quarters selected by IDES

Question 3

In Illinois, the weekly benefit amount (WBA) is primarily derived from earnings in which portion of the base period?

Accepted Answer

The two highest-earning quarters of the base period

Answer

The single highest-earning quarter in the base period

Answer

All four quarters of the base period averaged equally

Answer

The most recent completed quarter before separation

Question 4

Which of the following minimum wage requirements must an Illinois claimant meet in the base period to be monetarily eligible for UI benefits?

Accepted Answer

At least $1,600 in the highest quarter and total base period wages at least 1.5 times the high-quarter wages

Answer

At least $500 in total base period wages with no single-quarter minimum

Answer

At least $2,000 in any single quarter during the base period

Answer

At least $3,000 in combined wages across any two consecutive quarters

Question 5

What is the maximum number of weeks an eligible claimant can receive regular state unemployment insurance benefits in Illinois under normal (non-extended) conditions?

Accepted Answer

26 weeks

Answer

20 weeks

Answer

30 weeks

Answer

52 weeks

Question 6

A claimant's benefit year in Illinois typically lasts for how long after the date the initial claim is filed?

Accepted Answer

52 weeks (one year)

Answer

6 months

Answer

9 months

Answer

Until all available weeks are exhausted

Question 7

What document does IDES issue to formally notify a claimant of their weekly benefit amount, maximum benefit amount, and base period wages after an initial claim is filed?

Accepted Answer

Monetary Determination

Answer

Notice of Separation

Answer

Non-Monetary Eligibility Decision

Answer

Benefits Rights Information booklet