U.S. Economy

Refrigerators, ovens get a hygiene makeover during COVID-19 pandemic

Household appliances are breaking down faster than before with increased use as people shelter at home, and existing malfunctions have now become more intolerable. As travel remains limited because of the pandemic, wealthier consumers flush with cash are choosing to upgrade household products or splurge on new purchases.

Unemployment benefits drop below poverty line in 13 states

Unemployment insurance benefits for Americans in 13 states dipped below the poverty line after the extra $600-a-week in federal aid expired at the end of July, according to a new report from the Government Accountability Office. 

Key coronavirus aid programs set to expire at end of the year

The massive social safety net that Congress put in place for Americans struggling because of the coronavirus pandemic is unraveling, with several key CARES Act provisions and executive orders set to expire at the end of the year. 

US economy gets boost as Americans spend more

Consumer spending appears to have increased more slowly recently after rebounding strongly this summer. But it has been good enough to help fuel economic growth since the sharp recession this past spring, when the coronavirus pandemic forced millions of businesses, schools and government agencies across the U.S. to shut down or limit their activities.