2024 Layoffs: 3,362 WARN Act Notices Filed, 300,146 Employees Affected

2024 Layoff Statistics: By the Numbers

According to outplacement firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas, U.S.-based employers announced approximately 761,000 job cuts in 2024. While lower than 2020's pandemic-era peak, the number reflected an economy still adjusting to higher interest rates, evolving consumer behavior, and the early stages of AI-driven workforce transformation.

The technology sector continued its correction from 2022-2023 over-hiring, while retail and logistics companies restructured operations in response to shifting e-commerce patterns. WARN Act filings tracked by LayoffAlert.org recorded 3,362 official notices across 42 states during 2024.

Chart data: LayoffAlert.org WARN Act filings database. National figures: Challenger, Gray & Christmas.

The Biggest Layoffs of 2024

The table below shows the top companies by number of employees affected in WARN Act filings during 2024, based on official notices tracked by LayoffAlert.org. These figures reflect formal government filings and may not capture all workforce reductions (some layoffs fall below WARN Act thresholds).

The 2024 WARN Act data shows workforce reductions spanning multiple industries. Many of the top companies filed multiple notices across different states, reflecting coordinated restructuring efforts. Click any company name to view their full filing history on LayoffAlert.org.

2024 Layoffs by State

The geographic distribution of WARN Act notices in 2024 shows concentration in the most populous states, particularly those with large technology and logistics workforces.

California, Texas, and New York led in WARN Act filing volume in 2024, reflecting their concentration of large employers across technology, healthcare, logistics, and financial services. Click any state to see all notices filed there.

What the WARN Act Data Tells Us

LayoffAlert.org tracks official WARN Act filings from state labor departments across 42 states. Analyzing the 2024 filing data reveals patterns that complement the national headline numbers.

For a detailed explanation of how WARN Act notices work and what triggers a filing, see our WARN Act guide.

What to Do If You've Been Laid Off

If you were affected by a layoff, here are the most important steps to take:

• File for unemployment benefits immediately. Most states allow you to file online through your state's Department of Labor website. Benefits typically replace 40-60% of your prior wages.
• Review your WARN Act rights. If your employer has 100+ employees and laid off 50+ workers, they were required to give you 60 days advance notice (or pay in lieu of notice). If they didn't, you may be entitled to back pay. See our WARN Act guide.
• Negotiate your severance package. Severance agreements are negotiable. Consider having an employment attorney review your agreement before signing.
• Secure your health insurance. Under COBRA, you can continue your employer-sponsored health coverage for up to 18 months. ACA marketplace plans may be more affordable — job loss qualifies you for a Special Enrollment Period.
• Update your professional presence. Refresh your LinkedIn profile and resume immediately. Highlight specific accomplishments and measurable results rather than job duties.