Missouri Unemployment Claims Climb Amid Ongoing National Struggles

Jefferson City, Mo. (KFMO) - Missouri is seeing a noticeable rise in unemployment claims as national economic challenges continue.

According to data from the Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations, more than 14,379 jobless claims have been filed so far in October. The first week of October saw the highest number of claims, totaling 6,237. The increase comes as the federal government shutdown, the ongoing trade war, and the Boeing strike continue to impact businesses and workers across the state.

For comparison, during the same period in October 2024, there were 11,911 unemployment claims filed in Missouri, more than 2,400 fewer than this year.

State officials are continuing to monitor the situation as economic uncertainty affects multiple sectors, particularly manufacturing and government-related employment.