Jobless claims for the week ended Dec. 27 increased by 17,000 filings from the previous week’s revised level, the U.S. Department of Labor said.

The previous week’s level was revised up by 1,000 filings to 281,000 from 280,000.

In addition, the 4-week moving average was 290,750, an increase of 250 from the previous week's revised average.

“Holidays are often wildcards for weekly data, a fact that will limit the effect of a sharp 17,000 rise in initial jobless claims in the Dec. 27 week to 298,000,” analysts with Econoday said about the report.  

“Despite the jump, the 4-week average held steady, up only fractionally to a 290,750 level that is still trending about 10,000 lower than a month ago in a comparison that points to strength for the monthly employment report,” Econoday added.