The Economic Census 2021 Industry Classification Report is used to determine a North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for single-unit establishments where the Census Bureau does not have a complete NAICS code.

Obtaining a complete and accurate NAICS code through this report allows the Census Bureau to determine whether more information is required later in the Economic Census, and, if so, the most appropriate survey. This report also ensures the establishment is tabulated in the correct detailed industry.

The United States Code, Title 13, requires this census and provides for mandatory responses.

The Census Bureau conducts the Economic Census 2021 Industry Classification Report under the authority of an Act of Congress, Title 13, U.S.C., sections 131 and 193.  Section 131 defines the Secretary of Commerce’s (secretary) authority to take, compile, and publish the Economic Census.  Section 193 provides the specific authority to collect supplementary statistics related to the Economic Census.  This collection is made mandatory under the provisions of Title 13 U.S.C., Sections 224 and 225.

By Section 9 of Title 13, United States Code, your report is confidential, and the Census Bureau can use your responses only to produce statistics. The Census Bureau is not permitted to publicly release your responses in a way that could identify your business, organization, or institution. Per the Federal Cybersecurity Enhancement Act of 2015, your data are protected from cybersecurity risks through screening of the systems that transmit your data.