The 4-week moving average that removes week-to-week volatility decreased by 3,750 to 244,250. This is the lowest level for this average since November 3, 1973 when it was 244,000.
The advance seasonally adjusted insured unemployment rate was 1.5 percent for the week ending January 28, unchanged from the previous week's unrevised rate.
Continuing claims rose by 15,000 to 2,078,000 during the week ending January 28. The previous week's level was revised down by 1,000 to 2,063,000.
The 4-week moving average was 2,075,750, a decrease of 3,750 from the previous week's revised average. The previous week's average was revised down by 250 to 2,079,500.