Initial unemployment claims fell by 5,000 to 245,000 for the week ending June 14, according to data released Wednesday by the U.S. Department of Labor, though the four-week moving average reached its highest level since August 2023.
The seasonally adjusted figure represents a decrease from the previous week’s revised level of 250,000. However, the four-week moving average climbed to 245,500, an increase of 4,750 from the previous week and the highest level for this measure since August 19, 2023, when it reached 246,000.
The insured unemployment rate remained unchanged at 1.3 percent for the week ending June 7. The number of people receiving unemployment benefits after filing an initial claim decreased by 6,000 to 1.945 million during that period.
Continued claims show concerning trend
While initial claims declined, the four-week moving average for continued claims rose to 1.926 million, marking the highest level since November 20, 2021, when it reached 2.004 million. This measure represents people who continue to file for benefits after their initial claim.
“Early work experience should not come at the expense of a child’s well-being and educational opportunities,” said Wage and Hour Division District Director Katherine Walum in Portland, Oregon. “Federal law protects young workers from the dangers involved in the operation and maintenance of commercial-grade equipment, and ensures they are not working late hours on school nights.”
State-by-state breakdown
California led states with the largest increase in initial claims for the week ending June 7, adding 8,930 claims. Minnesota followed with an increase of 4,809 claims, while Pennsylvania saw a rise of 3,939 claims.
The largest decreases occurred in Kentucky, which dropped by 4,249 claims due to fewer layoffs in the manufacturing industry. Other significant decreases were reported in North Dakota, Tennessee, Mississippi, and Kansas.
Several states reported industry-specific layoffs. Pennsylvania cited layoffs in transportation, warehousing, accommodation and food services, and healthcare industries. Texas reported layoffs in accommodation and food services, healthcare, transportation, and management sectors.
Regional unemployment rates
The highest insured unemployment rates for the week ending May 31 were concentrated in northeastern and western states. New Jersey led with 2.3 percent, followed by California at 2.2 percent and Massachusetts at 2.1 percent. Washington and Rhode Island both reported rates of 2.1 percent and 2.0 percent respectively.
Federal worker claims
Initial claims filed by former federal civilian employees totaled 535 for the week ending June 7, a decrease of 26 from the prior week. Newly discharged veterans filed 404 initial claims, representing an increase of 76 from the previous week.
The total number of continued weeks claimed for benefits across all programs reached 1.854 million for the week ending May 31, an increase of 70,748 from the previous week. This figure includes regular state programs as well as federal employee and veteran benefits.
No state triggered extended benefits during the reporting period, indicating that unemployment levels have not reached thresholds that would activate additional benefit programs in any state.
