First-time unemployment claims in Florida decreased last week. The state Department of Commerce is preparing to publish an October unemployment rate this Friday. Last week, the U.S. Department of Labor estimated that 6,356 claims were made in Florida, down from 6,841 the week before. These figures are consistent with the state’s weekly average for this year, which was influenced by significant increases in claims after Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Florida’s weekly average stands at 6,576 unemployment claims. Specifically, after Hurricane Helene, claims rose to 9,556. Post-Hurricane Milton, the figure was 10,800. From April through September, Florida’s state unemployment rate was a stable 3.3%. As of October, the national unemployment rate stands at 4.1%. An estimated 217,000 claims were filed across the country last week, a decrease from the 221,000 filed during the previous week.

For residents navigating unemployment, here are some resources to get help. You can find information on how to speak to someone at edd, get updates on your edd payment status, report if your edd appointment never happened, and get suggestions for the fastest way to get through to edd at eddcaller.com. This website is designed to be a central hub for individuals looking to get in touch with the Employment Development Department, providing valuable information and tips suitable for both first-time claimants and those who have been navigating the unemployment process for some time.