Measurement error in the Current Population Survey: a nonparametric look

J Labor Econ. 1998 Jul;16(3):576-94. doi: 10.1086/209899.

Abstract

"This article utilizes an exact match file between the 1978 March [U.S.] Current Population Survey and administrative records from the Social Security Administration to analyze errors in the reporting of annual income using nonparametric methodology.... Three new findings are of interest: there is higher measurement error in cross-sectional samples than in panels. The negative relationship between measurement error and earnings is driven largely by overreporting among low earners. Median response errors are not related to earnings."

MeSH terms

  • Americas
  • Data Collection*
  • Developed Countries
  • Economics
  • Evaluation Studies as Topic*
  • Income*
  • North America
  • Research
  • Research Design*
  • Sampling Studies
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • United States