U.S. Jobless Claims Rise to 215,000, Topping Economists’ Forecasts

Initial jobless claims rose to 215,000 for the week ended May 23, 2026, the Labor Department reported on May 28. The figure edged past the consensus estimate of 213,000 economists had forecast, suggesting a modest uptick in layoffs. The previous week’s claims were revised up by 1,000 to 212,000. The four-week moving average, a less volatile gauge, also ticked higher to 214,500, signaling some softening in labor market momentum. Despite the slight increase, claims remain near historic lows, reflecting a labor market that remains tight overall. Federal Reserve officials closely monitor the data for signs of cooling as they assess the path of interest rates.