4-Week Moving Average of Continued Claims (Insured Unemployment)

CC4WSA • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

1,951,750.00

Year-over-Year Change

4.23%

Date Range

6/3/2006 - 7/26/2025

Summary

The 4-Week Moving Average of Continued Claims (Insured Unemployment) measures the weekly average number of people receiving unemployment insurance benefits. It provides a smoothed view of ongoing unemployment levels, offering insights into the strength of the labor market.

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

This economic indicator tracks the number of people who have been unemployed for more than a week and are continuing to claim unemployment insurance benefits. It is a closely watched metric used by policymakers, analysts, and economists to assess the health of the job market and inform economic decision-making.

Methodology

The data is collected by the U.S. Department of Labor from state workforce agencies and calculated as a 4-week moving average.

Historical Context

Trends in continued claims provide important context for monetary and fiscal policy decisions affecting employment and the broader economy.

Key Facts

  • The data is released weekly by the U.S. Department of Labor.
  • Continued claims represent people receiving unemployment benefits after their initial claim.
  • Smoothing the data with a 4-week average provides a clearer picture of unemployment trends.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: The 4-Week Moving Average of Continued Claims (Insured Unemployment) tracks the number of people receiving unemployment insurance benefits for more than a week.

Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?

A: This metric provides important insights into the health of the labor market and is closely monitored by policymakers, economists, and market analysts to inform economic decisions.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is collected by the U.S. Department of Labor from state workforce agencies and calculated as a 4-week moving average.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Trends in continued claims are used by central banks, governments, and other institutions to assess labor market conditions and inform monetary and fiscal policy decisions.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The data is released weekly with minimal delay, providing timely insights into the employment situation.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, 4-Week Moving Average of Continued Claims (Insured Unemployment) (CC4WSA), retrieved from FRED.