Americans continue to apply for unemployment benefits related to the pandemic. During the past week, the number of applications submitted increased. Approximately 965,000 applications for unemployment benefits were filed last week, including both regular benefits and supplemental payments provided by pandemic assistance programs. This figure turned out to be higher than expected by economists, who had predicted around 800,000 applications. Nonetheless, the number of applications for benefits has increased against the backdrop of ongoing problems in the labor market caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the beginning of the pandemic in early 2020, about 77 million Americans have filed for unemployment benefits. Analysts point out that the high level of applications submitted reflects the complexities that millions of U.S. citizens are facing due to the economic consequences of the pandemic. This highlights the need for additional federal assistance for Americans as the country continues to deal with the aftermath of COVID-19.
