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     In April 2006, information about how much Americans spend for health care, groceries, clothing, transportation, housing and other items will be collected by U.S. Census Bureau field representatives from a sample of households across the country.

     The Consumer Expenditure (CE) Survey program consists of two separate surveys:

• The CE Interview Survey — About 7,000 households will be interviewed once every three months to obtain data on relatively large expenditures and also for those that occur on a regular basis (such as rent and utilities).
• The CE Diary Survey — Over the year, another 7,000 households will keep two consecutive one-week diaries of all purchases — including small, frequently purchased items that are normally difficult for respondents to recall later (such as toothpaste, bread or a hamburger from a fast-food restaurant).

     The Bureau of Labor Statistics then publishes integrated data from the two surveys — providing a snapshot of our nation’s economy and spending habits. Government economists use the survey results to update a “market basket” of goods and services for the Consumer Price Index, our nation’s single most widely used measure of inflation.

     “Findings from this survey help business and community leaders make sound decisions,” said George Grandy Jr., director of the Census Bureau’s Atlanta Regional Office. “More specifically, the survey gives business owners the information they need to help respond better to consumer needs, and it is a great help to government officials planning public services.”

     Before the CE surveys begin, households receive a letter from Census Bureau Director Louis Kincannon informing them of their selection. Census Bureau field representatives conducting the interviews carry official photo identification badges. The law ensures survey respondents’ personal information and answers are kept confidential.

     Below is an example of CE data results:

Out-of-Pocket Health Care Expenditures: 2003-2004