The need for more timely data than could be supplied by surveys conducted every 10 to 12 years, intensified by the rapidly changing economic conditions of the 1970s, led to the initiation of the current, continuing survey in 1979. Unlike previous surveys, which occurred every 10 years or so, the latest survey has been ongoing since late 1979.
Data are now available quarterly and annually.
Like the 1972-73 survey, the current survey consists of two separate surveys, each with a different data collection technique and sample. The sample for each quarter is divided into three panels, with CU's being interviewed every 3 months in the same panel of every quarter. The sample housing unit is notified in advance by a letter informing the occupants about the purpose of the survey and the upcoming visit by the interviewer. Both surveys are conducted by personal visits with telephone usage limited to appointment scheduling and follow-up calls for information missed at the time of the proposed interview. The interviewer uses a structured questionnaire to collect both the demographic and expenditure data in the Interview survey.