The state Department of Labor has reported a slight rise in unemployment rates in Cattaraugus County and Allegany County in November, as compared to October. However, the rates are lower than the unemployment rates of November 2023. The November unemployment rate in Cattaraugus County is 3.7%, up from 3.4% in October but down from the 4.4% reported in November 2023. Similarly, in Allegany County, the unemployment rate rose to 3.6% in November, up from 3.3% in October but down from 4% in November 2023.

The national unemployment rate remained steady at 4.2% in November, the same as October, but higher than the 3.7% recorded in November 2023. Unemployment rates in six states rose in November from the previous month while the rate declined in one state.

It’s worth noting that all rates come from surveys and methods created by the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics and are not adjusted for seasonal variations. As an example, unemployment rates in the region are generally highest in January and February.

If you are affected by unemployment in California and are having trouble reaching the Employment Development Department (EDD), you might find the information on eddcaller.com helpful. It includes strategies on how to get through to EDD, information on the best times to call, and tips for speaking to a live person at EDD. This could save you considerable time and frustration when trying to navigate the often-complex process of filing for unemployment benefits.