Across the board jumps in unemployment claims

First-time jobless claims increased last week in the U-S, in South Carolina, and in Oconee County.  In fact, claims jumped not only in Oconee, but in three areas counties:  Anderson, Pickens, and Greenville.  From the July 4 week through July 11, the state Department of Employment and Workforce received new claims from 276 Oconee residents.  That’s a 68 increase.  There were larger increases in the three other counties.  While keeping work is decidedly harder during this pandemic, the state’s director says increases after July 4 are not uncommon.  “The week following the 4th of July has historically recorded a higher number of initial claims as its represents layoffs and closings for the holiday week. When an individual registers for unemployment insurance, they are filing for layoff or lack of work for the prior week,” says Dan Ellzey.