evidence: Prior to the pandemic, regular UI replaced just 50 percent of earnings in most states, and, as evidenced in low recipiency rates, many unemployed workers did not receive UI benefits. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. government implemented the largest expansion of federal UI benefits in U.S. history. It increased the level of benefits through weekly supplements. Eligibility was expanded to include independent workers and those unable to work for a variety of COVID-related reasons through the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program. The duration of federal benefits was extended by 53 weeks. [...] - The spending impacts of UI were large. UI benefits provided a powerful stimulus to the macroeconomy by boosting consumption, particularly among low-income and low-liquidity workers. - Work disincentive effects from UI benefits were small during the pandemic, especially when compared to historical standards.