Supporting Statement B (1220-0100)

SUPPORTING STATEMENT

B. COLLECTION OF INFORMATION EMPLOYING STATISTICAL METHODS

1. Universe and Respondent Burden

The universe for the CPS is about 111 million households. From this universe, we select a sample of approximately 72,000 households each month, of which approximately 60,000 households are eligible for interviews. We actually interview about 55,000 households each month. See the technical note to the February 2006 Employment and Earnings for more information (Attachment H.)

2. Procedures for Collecting Information

Attachment G gives an overview of the CPS sample design and weighting methodology.

The CPS produces demographic data, labor force data, and data from various periodic supplemental inquires. We designed the CPS sample to produce estimates of employment and unemployment characteristics with sufficient reliability to meet the BLS’ requirements for monthly data and estimates of month-to-month, quarter-to-quarter, and year-to-year changes. The coefficient of variation on estimates of unemployment is 1.9 percent monthly at the national level. It is 8.0 percent annually at the state level. This degree of accuracy is sufficient to meet the needs mandated.

One of the primary goals of the CPS is to provide change estimates (both month-to-month as well as over-the-year) in the employment and unemployment statistics. The current rotation pattern of CPS (4-8-4) was chosen because it provides such estimates reliably, and performs better overall than other rotation patterns in which respondents are in for a total of 8 months.

3. Methods to Maximize Response

We maintain response rates and data accuracy for the CPS at high levels through internal consistency edits in the computerized instrument, interviewer instructions, training, and close monitoring of these data.

4. Contact Persons

The following individuals may be consulted concerning the statistical data collection and analysis operation:

Statistical design:

Carol Gunlicks

Demographic Statistical Methods Division

Bureau of the Census

(301) 763-4241

Statistical Analysis:

Diane Herz

Office of Employment and Unemployment Statistics

Bureau of Labor Statistics

Washington, D.C. 20212

(202) 691-6383

Data Collection/Survey Design:

Kathleen Creighton

Demographic Surveys Division

Bureau of the Census

(301) 763-3814

Attachments:

1. Basic CPS Items Booklet

2. Title 29, United States Code, Sections 1 through 9

C. Employment Situation Press Release

D. CPS Advance Letter

E. Confidentiality Brochure

6. Title 13, United States Code

7. Overview of CPS Sample Design and Methodology

H. Technical Note from February 2006 Employment and Earnings

I. Technical Paper 67: Design and Methodology American Community Survey

J. American Community Survey Content Test Report

2