The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) issues a comprehensive employment and unemployment report on a monthly basis, drawing on nationwide survey data to assess the health of the labor market.
We have separated the veteran-related numbers to highlight their specific employment trends to provide an ongoing view of workforce among those who have served.
The IVMF Employment Situation of Veterans October 26 (released November 2026) reports that veteran unemployment improved significantly in October 2026, falling from 3.5% in September to 2.7%, while post-9/11 veteran unemployment declined from 4.1% to 3.4%. Overall U.S. employment rose by 165,000 jobs, and the national unemployment rate remained relatively stable at 4.1%. Despite overall improvement, younger veterans ages 18 to 24 continued to face severe employment challenges, with unemployment rising to 24.8%. Unemployment decreased among female veterans and most racial and ethnic veteran groups. The report highlights generally stronger labor market outcomes for veterans compared with nonveterans, while noting substantial variation across demographic subgroups.