Coronavirus batters US economy as 6.65m file for unemployment last week
by Dominic Rushe and Lauren Aratani in New York from on (#51KW1)
US sees second major unemployment rise as millions working in retail, restaurants, and travel lose jobs
More than 6.65 million people filed for unemployment benefits in the US last week, the latest official figures to highlight the devastating economic impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the American economy.
The federal labor department announced that a new record number of people sought benefits after losing their jobs in the week ending 27 March as long lines formed at unemployment offices, phone lines jammed and websites collapsed under the weight of claims across the US.
Related: What US unemployment benefits can I get during the coronavirus? Your payment options explained
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