First-time claims for unemployment insurance in Hall County rose by 36 percent last month compared to November and they were up 9.2 percent compared to a year ago.
Statewide, applications increased 60.7 percent in December compared to November and 25.2 percent in December 2023.
In the 12-county Georgia Mountains Region, which includes Hall County, claims were up 66 percent for the month versus a decrease of 9.9 percent a year ago.
There was also a big jump in claims nationwide in December. The experts say this is because of a potential softening in job demand as higher interest rates begin to take effect. The rising level of continuing claims suggests that some who are receiving benefits already are finding it harder to land new jobs.
To check data for each county in Georgia, click here Georgia LaborMarket Explorer (ga.gov), then click on “Claims” and “more.”