4.2: The Household Survey I

The U.S. Census Bureau conducts the Household Survey for the Bureau of Labor Statistics. It is also called the Current Population Survey (CPS). This survey provides key data on employment, unemployment, and labor force participation.

The CPS samples approximately 60,000 households each month. It covers the civilian noninstitutional population aged 16 and older, excluding individuals who are incarcerated or living in long-term care facilities. The data collection process involves Census Bureau field representatives. They conduct interviews in person or by telephone using a computerized questionnaire.

The survey follows a structured timeline. Data collection takes place each month during the week, which includes the 19th day. Data collection takes place each month during the week, which includes the 19th day of the month. Respondents provide information about their activities during the survey reference week. This reference week is the seven-day period that contains the 12th day of the same month.

The CPS plays a fundamental role in tracking employment patterns, and helping policymakers, researchers, and economists analyze labor market dynamics.

The U.S. Census Bureau conducts a vital survey for the Bureau of Labor Statistics. It’s called the Current Population Survey, CPS, or the Household Survey.

It's the primary monthly household survey used to measure our nation's labor force.

It is a nationwide survey that typically samples approximately 60,000 households.

Census Bureau field representatives administer the CPS. They conduct interviews in person and by telephone using a computerized questionnaire.

The CPS covers the civilian population aged 16 and older. It excludes those who are incarcerated or living in long-term care facilities.

Data is collected each month.

The questions specifically ask about a person's employment situation during the week that includes the 12^th of that month.

This specific timeframe is known as the 'survey reference week'.

The CPS provides essential data that helps measure employment trends, guiding economic policy and workforce analysis across the United States.