There are limitations to using ACS data. In addition to the absence of biological risk factor information and tobacco-use information, the ACS survey data are collected under privacy and confidentiality provisions of the U.S. Census Bureau (Title 13, US Federal Code); therefore, the full database can only be analyzed within the U.S. Census Bureau by those with explicit authorization. See Data Availability page for the options.

Confidentiality of MDAC Data

The assurance of confidentiality of Census Bureau data is provided by Title 13 of the United States Code (U.S.C.). As such, MDAC operational procedures carefully follow the well-defined practices designed to maintain the confidentiality of personal records as required by Title 13. These practices include the prevention of disclosure through the elimination of sparse cells in publications, the prohibited release of small-area geographical information on the MDAC public-use files, the use of an individually assigned MDAC control number to identify records instead of the use of personal identifiers for these purposes, and the restriction of persons having direct access to the MDAC database. A violation of Title 13 restrictions includes loss of job and assessment of severe penalties including a prison term of up to 5 years and/or fines of up to $500,000, for any individual found guilty of releasing confidential information. In addition, any data acquired from an external agency for MDAC purposes is acquired under the same strict confidentiality protections and practices of Title 13.

Other Subtopics Within 'Research'

Administrative Records

View information on Administrative Records for Research at the U.S. Census Bureau.

Behavioral Science Methods

The Center for Survey Measurement (CSM) conducts research on questionnaire design and evaluation.

Big Data

Learn how the U.S. Census Bureau is using new types of data and analysis to improve and strengthen our statistics.

Data Science

View information on Data Science for Research at the U.S. Census Bureau.

Disclosure Avoidance

Learn more about areas of statistical disclosure control, confidentiality, and disclosure limitation.

Federal Statistical Research Data Centers

The Federal Statistical System Research Data Centers are partnerships between federal statistical agencies and leading research institutions.

General Economic Research

View information on General Economic Research at the U.S. Census Bureau.

Paradata

View information on Paradata for Research at the U.S. Census Bureau.

Statistical Research

CSRM conducts research on statistical design, modeling, and analysis methods for the Census Bureau's data collection, analysis, and dissemination programs.

Time Series and Seasonal Adjustment

Seasonal adjustment is the estimation of the seasonal component, followed by their removal from the time series.