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Local Area Unemployment Statistics

People Are Asking...

Does LAUS have information on labor force participation rates and employment-population ratios?

For selected areas, the LAUS program produces current estimates of labor force participation rates and employment-population ratios. See Civilian Noninstitutional Population and Associated Rate and Ratio Measures for Model-Based Areas for information about and access to these data.

What areas have the highest or lowest unemployment rates?

For a ranked table of the current unemployment rates for States, see www.bls.gov/web/laus/laumstrk.htm. A table with historical high and low rates is located at www.bls.gov/web/laus/lauhsthl.htm.

For a ranked table of the current unemployment rates for metropolitan areas, see www.bls.gov/web/metro/laummtrk.htm.

How can I apply for unemployment insurance?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics does not administer or oversee unemployment insurance (UI) programs. Unemployment insurance benefits are determined at the State level. Each State's laws, procedures, taxation rates, qualification requirements, and benefits are unique. Another agency within the Department of Labor—the Employment and Training Administration (ETA)—sets minimum requirements for and provides guidance to the State workforce agencies. You should contact your State workforce agency for information, using the Department of Labor's search web site.

Where can I find out if my unemployment insurance benefits will be extended?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics has no administrative responsibility in unemployment insurance (UI) matters, although we do use UI data in some statistical procedures. The Employment and Training Administration (ETA), another agency within the Department of Labor, has administrative oversight of UI programs. News regarding existing extended benefits, disaster relief, and economic recovery programs is available through the ETA web site.

Information on other programs to assist unemployed individuals that are offered by the Department of Labor.

 

Last Modified Date: February 9, 2017