The expert explained the rules for increasing unemployment benefits in 2026

Unemployment benefits will be increased in 2026 after the planned indexation, and for many citizens the amount of payments will increase significantly. The increase will affect both minimum and maximum values, which will partially offset the increase in household spending. This was announced on December 2, 2025 by Sofya Lukinova, head of the Legal Department of VMT Consult.

According to Lukinova, government support is becoming especially significant against the background of financial difficulties faced by citizens after losing their jobs.

— Unemployment benefits will be indexed in 2026, and for many citizens their amount will increase significantly. This is especially important when people are facing financial difficulties and government support plays a key stabilizing role," she said.

Payments are traditionally calculated based on the unemployed person's work history and the grounds for dismissal. Lukinova recalled that if you have at least 26 weeks of official experience in the last 12 months, the allowance in the first three months is set at 75% of average earnings, and in the next three months — 60%. At the same time, there is a restriction: the total amount cannot exceed the maximum set by the state. In cases where a citizen is looking for work for the first time, does not have the required length of service, or previously worked informally, he is assigned a minimum amount of benefits.

The indexation of 2026 will increase both payment limits. The minimum amount will reach about 1,9 thousand rubles, the maximum amount will exceed 16 thousand rubles. Thus, citizens with a proven income and sufficient length of service will be able to expect more substantial payments, since the calculation formula remains unchanged. At the same time, the government continues to adhere to a multi-level approach: increased interest is paid in the first three months, then the amount of benefits is reduced. As Lukinova noted, such a mechanism is considered effective, as it "stimulates a more active job search while maintaining social protection."

For more information, see the Izvestia article.

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