The Illinois unemployment rate fell in August for the sixth consecutive month to reach 6.7 percent while employers created13,800 jobs, according to preliminary data released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Illinois Department of Employment Security. The data is seasonally adjusted.  The drop from 9.2 percent one year ago marks the largest year-over-year decline since 1984. The last time the rate was lower than 6.7 was in July 2008 when it was 6.6.  Also, there are 40,600 more jobs than one year ago.  First-time jobless claims have been trending lower for the past four years and in August, the number of monthly claims was at its lowest level since 1998. Numbers from the independent Conference Board’s Help Wanted OnLine Index show that Illinois employers in August advertised for nearly 225,900 jobs and 84 percent sought full-time work.  To apply for these jobs, go to Illinoisjoblink.com, the state’s help-wanted internet job board managed by IDES. August job growth was led by Leisure and Hospitality with 5,000 more jobs, Trade, Transportation and Utilities had 4,300 more jobs, and Professional and Business Services had 3,300 more.  Education and Health Services had 1,700 fewer jobs and Financial Activities declined by 300.  The unemployment rate identifies those who are out of work and seeking employment.  A person who exhausts benefits, or is ineligible, still will be reflected in the unemployment rate if they actively seek work.