The American Community Survey (ACS) has not in the past, and does not currently, use a finite population correction (FPC) factor in its variance estimation methodology. However, the Census 2000 long form variance estimation methodology did include such a factor. One-year ACS samples are not large enough for an FPC to have much impact on variances. However, with 5-year ACS estimates, up to 50 percent of housing units in certain blocks may have been in sample over the 5-year period. Applying an FPC factor will enable us to get a more accurate estimate of the variance, particularly for small areas. Research began on assessing the feasibility and the magnitude of the effect of incorporating an FPC factor into ACS variance estimates.

Others in Series

Working Paper

Replacing/Supplementing Sale of Agricultural Products Question on ACS

August 24, 2017

Learn more about the potential for using IRS data to replace or supplement the sale of agricultural products question on the ACS.

Working Paper

August 26, 2010

Examines research to determine if there are estimates to approximate shorter time periods using current ACS design and estimation methodology.

Working Paper

Use of Administrative Records to Replace or Enhance the Mortgage/Home Equity Loan Amount & Payment Questions on the American Community Survey

August 29, 2018

Learn more about the potential for using administrative records to capture mortgage data on the ACS.

Page Last Revised - October 8, 2021

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