U.S. Employer Layoff Plans Fall in September, Challenger Says

By Jessica Coacci

U.S.-based employers announced 43,281 job cuts in September, down 18% from August, according to a report from global outplacement and executive coaching firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas.

Through September, employers have announced 573,195 job cuts, down 39% from the 946,426 cuts announced in the first nine months of 2025, the report said.

"Employers are facing high energy costs, an uncertain war in Iran, a rate hike that could make hiring more expensive, plus the likelihood of surging healthcare costs," said Andy Challenger, chief revenue officer for Challenger, Gray & Christmas.

Technology companies announced 10,799 cuts in September, up 77% from 6,103 in August. Technology accounts for 29% of all job cuts announced in 2026, more than any other industry.

Market and economic conditions led all reasons for job cuts in September.

Meanwhile, employers announced plans to hire 90,787 workers in September, up from the 12,325 plans announced in August, as seasonal hiring announcements have begun. However, it is down 23% from September 2025, and the lowest September total since 2011.

Write to Jessica Coacci at jessica.coacci@wsj.com

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

October 01, 2026 05:30 ET (09:30 GMT)