Unemployment insurance benefit
From 2026 Estonia has one unemployment insurance scheme with two benefits. The income-based benefit: at least 12 months of record in the last 3 years and an involuntary job end — 60% of your previous average wage for the first 100 days, then 40% (in 2026 the cap is 101.27 euros per day for the first 100 days). The new base-rate benefit: at least 8 months of record, regardless of why the job ended — 443 euros a month (half of last year's minimum wage), for up to 180 calendar days. The old töötutoetus has been abolished.
Who this applies to
Step by step
Register as unemployed
In the Töötukassa e-service or at an office. When registering, file the benefit application too — Töötukassa itself determines whether you qualify for the income-based or the base-rate benefit.
The benefit calculation
Income-based: 60% for the first 100 days, then 40% of the average wage; the 2026 cap is 101.27 euros per day (67.51 from day 101). Base-rate: 443 euros a month, regardless of past income.
Meet the job-seeker obligations
To keep the benefit, attend counselling, actively seek work and follow your individual job-search plan. In high unemployment the base-rate payment is automatically extended to 240 days.
Common mistakes
Frequently asked questions
How large is the benefit in 2026?
Income-based: 60% of the average wage for the first 100 days, then 40% (minimum 14.77, maximum 101.27 euros per day). Base-rate: 443 euros a month.
How long is it paid?
The income-based benefit for up to 180, 270 or 300 calendar days depending on the record; the base-rate benefit for up to 180 days (240 in high unemployment).
Am I health-insured while unemployed?
Yes — a registered unemployed person is health-insured whether or not they receive a benefit.