American Community Survey (ACS)

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Summary

The American Community Survey (ACS) is an ongoing nationwide survey conducted by the Census Bureau that collects vital information about the social, economic, housing, and demographic characteristics of our nation’s population. Replacing the long form of the decennial census, the ACS is distributed to approximately 3.5 million addresses annually, providing detailed data throughout the year. Since 2005, it has generated estimates for areas with populations of 65,000 or more and, through 5-year accumulations, for smaller geographic areas such as census tracts and block groups. This data plays a crucial role in informing policy decisions and guiding the distribution of trillions of dollars in federal funds each year.

https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/acs
Agency DOC, CENSUS
Data Checkup

Historical Data Availability

No Known Issue

Future Data Availability

High Risk
On August 4, 2026, the U.S. Census Bureau announced an indefinite delay in the release of data from the American Community Survey (ACS).

Data Quality

High Risk
In an August 2, 2026 panel discussion at the Joint Statistical Meetings, Census Bureau leadership noted that changes to data availability and granularity are anticipated due to DAO 216-26.

Statutory Context

No Known Issue
The ACS is required by law.

Staffing and Funding

Moderate Risk
From FY2024 to FY2026, the Census Bureau has lost more than 2,500 staff (approximately 20%).

Policy

No Known Issue
Last updated: 2026-08-12
Primary URL https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/acs

Details

OMB Control Number 0607-0810
Authorizing Statutes 13 USC 141, 193, 221, 223
Related ICRs
Reference Number Title Agency Status Request Type
202605-0607-002 The American Community Survey and the Puerto Rico Community Survey DOC/CENSUS Active
Revision of a currently approved collection
202505-0607-003 The American Community Survey and the Puerto Rico Community Survey DOC/CENSUS Active
Extension without change of a currently approved collection
202411-0607-001 The American Community Survey and the Puerto Rico Community Survey DOC/CENSUS Historical Active
Revision of a currently approved collection
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