State law determines how long unemployment benefits last. In the past, virtually all states offered up to 26 weeks of unemployment benefits. In recent years, however, some states have shortened these entitlements.
In Alaska, you can receive unemployment benefits for a maximum of 16 to 26 weeks, depending on how evenly spread your earnings were throughout the base period. If you earned most of your income in your highest-paid quarter, your benefits will last for a shorter period; if your earnings were more evenly divided over the entire base period year, you will receive benefits for a longer time. See Calculating Your Weekly Benefit Amount and Duration for more information.
If you are still unemployed when your Alaska benefits run out, you may be eligible for extended benefits. These benefits are available for an extra 13 to 20 weeks (depending on your state's rules) during times of high unemployment. See How Long Will My Unemployment Benefits Last in Alaska for details on these programs.