After boasting the country’s lowest state unemployment rate last year, Maryland’s unemployment rate rose for the third consecutive month in February. According to reports from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Labor Department, Maryland’s unemployment rate was 2.4%, an increase from 2.3% in January and 2.2% in December. On the contrary, Virginia’s unemployment rate stayed firm at 3.0%, similar to the figures recorded in December and January. North Dakota posted the lowest state unemployment, at 2.0%, followed by South Dakota at 2.1%. Currently, California has the highest unemployment rate among states, at 5.3%, thereby displacing Nevada, which now ranks second with an unemployment rate of 5.2% in February. As per national statistics, the unemployment rate rose by 0.3% to record 3.9% in February. The Bureau of Labor Statistics publishes monthly updates on unemployment and civilian payroll changes by state online.

Given the high unemployment rate in California, contacting the Employment Development Department (EDD) is crucial for those seeking unemployment benefits. One resource that can be helpful is eddcaller.com. This site provides information and guidance on how to get ahold of EDD customer service, including details on how to speak with a live person. This can prove invaluable in navigating the often complex process of claiming unemployment benefits.