Initial Claims
This dataset tracks initial claims over time.
Latest Value
226000.00
Year-over-Year Change
-0.88%
Date Range
1/7/1967 - 8/2/2025
Summary
Initial Claims tracks the number of people who have filed for unemployment benefits for the first time. It's a key economic indicator used to gauge the health of the labor market and overall economic conditions.
Analysis & Context
This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.
Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.
About This Dataset
Initial Claims data is released weekly by the U.S. Department of Labor. It represents the number of new jobless claims filed during the previous week, providing a real-time snapshot of layoffs and the strength of the job market.
Methodology
The data is collected through state workforce agencies, who report the number of initial unemployment insurance claims filed in their state.
Historical Context
Initial Claims is closely watched by economists, policymakers, and financial markets as an early indicator of employment and economic trends.
Key Facts
- Initial Claims data is released weekly by the U.S. Department of Labor.
- Initial Claims tracks the number of new jobless claims filed in the previous week.
- It's a leading indicator of employment and economic conditions.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: Initial Claims tracks the number of people who have filed for unemployment benefits for the first time in the previous week.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Initial Claims is a key leading indicator of labor market and economic conditions, providing real-time insights into layoffs and the strength of the job market.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through state workforce agencies, who report the number of initial unemployment insurance claims filed in their state.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Initial Claims is closely watched by economists, policymakers, and financial markets as an early indicator of employment and economic trends, informing policy decisions and market analysis.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: Initial Claims data is released weekly, providing a timely snapshot of the labor market, though it may not fully capture all unemployment activity due to varying state reporting practices.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Initial Claims (ICSA), retrieved from FRED.