Jobless Claims Drop to 197,000 — Lowest Since Mid-July as Layoffs Stay Rare

NewsData.io · United States · Sep 26, 2026

Initial unemployment claims fell to 197,000 last week, the lowest reading since mid-July, signaling that layoffs remain historically rare despite economic headwinds. Employers are adding an average of 80,000 jobs per month in 2026, a marked improvement over the weak 9,700 monthly average in 2025, though still well below recent historical norms. Businesses are reportedly reluctant to cut staff, remembering post-pandemic labor shortages, but hiring remains modest. The September jobs report, due next week, is expected to show roughly 52,500 new positions added with unemployment holding at 4.1%.