2 million Americans haven't had a paycheck in over 6 months. That's up +524,000 in a year. The most since 2021.

2 million Americans haven't had a paycheck in over 6 months. That's up +524,000 in a year. The most since 2021. That’s now 27.5% of ALL unemployed Americans. A year ago it was only 20%. Here's why this matters: Unemployment benefits stop at week 26 in most states. So the moment you cross into this group, the safety net disappears. Companies aren't hiring. If you don't have a job, you're stuck in line behind everyone who lost theirs after you. Recent grads can't even get in the line. And the longer you're out, the harder it gets. Hiring managers see a resume gap and move on. Which extends the gap. It's a loop. And 2 million people are stuck in it.