California EDD Work Sharing Program Calculator

About Work Sharing

The Work Sharing program allows employers to reduce employee hours and wages as an alternative to layoffs. Employees can receive partial unemployment benefits to supplement their reduced wages.

Weekly Benefit Amount Calculator

Calculate the employee's Weekly Benefit Amount (WBA) based on highest quarter earnings:

Enter the total wages earned during the highest-paid quarter in the past 18 months

Estimated Weekly Benefit Amount: $385

This is the benefit amount if the employee was fully unemployed

Benefit calculation rules:

  • Below $900 in highest quarter: Not eligible
  • $2,522 in highest quarter: $97 weekly benefit
  • $11,674+ in highest quarter: $450 weekly benefit (maximum)
  • Other amounts: Approximately 50% of average weekly wages

Employee Work Schedule

Enter the employee's normal work schedule and reduced schedule:

Enter the employee's normal weekly wages before reduction

Percentage reduction in both work hours and wages (must be between 10% and 60%)

Reduced Weekly Wage: $800.00

This is what the employee will receive directly from the employer

Work Sharing Benefit Calculation

Estimate the Work Sharing benefit amount:

The weekly unemployment benefit the employee would get if fully unemployed ($40-$450)

Reduction Percentage:
20%
Normal Weekly Wage:
$1,000.00
Reduced Weekly Wage:
$800.00
Full Weekly Benefit Amount:
$300.00
Work Sharing Benefit:
$60.00
Total Weekly Income:
$860.00
Income Retention:
86%

Work Sharing Benefit Formula:

  • Work Sharing Benefit = Weekly Benefit Amount × Reduction Percentage
  • Total Income = Reduced Weekly Wage + Work Sharing Benefit
  • Income Retention = Total Income / Normal Weekly Wage
Program Requirements
  • The reduction in hours and wages must be between 10% and 60%
  • Benefits are calculated as a percentage of the employee's regular unemployment benefit
  • Employers must maintain health and retirement benefits for participating employees
  • Employees must have completed a normal work week before participating
  • Employees serve a one-week unpaid waiting period (like regular unemployment)

DISCLAIMER

This calculator is provided for informational purposes only and does not guarantee the actual benefit amount employees may receive from the California Employment Development Department (EDD). The actual amount will be determined by the EDD based on eligibility status and current regulations.

The formulas used in this calculator are based on publicly available information from the California EDD as of March 2025. Benefit calculations and eligibility requirements may change. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please visit the official California EDD Work Sharing Program website or contact your local EDD office.