The Labor Department said Thursday that new claims for jobless benefits jumped by 13,000 to a seasonally adjusted 472,000. The four-week average, which smooths fluctuations, rose by 3,250 to 466,500, its highest level since March.
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - New claims for state unemployment aid unexpectedly rose last week, heightening fears the U.S. economic recovery is stalling.
Initial claims for state unemployment benefits increased 13,000 to a seasonally adjusted 472,000, the Labor Department said on Thursday.
Analysts polled by Reuters had expected claims to slip to 452,000 from the previously reported 457,000, which was revised slightly up to 459,000 in Thursday's report.
