What are the American Community Survey (ACS) and the Puerto Rico Community Survey (PRCS)?

The ACS is part of the U.S. Census Bureau's Decennial Census Program. It is an on-going sample survey designed to provide communities with reliable and timely demographic, social, economic, and housing data every year. In Puerto Rico, the survey is called the PRCS.

The ACS and PRCS are conducted every year, rather than once every ten years, so they provide more current data throughout the decade. The ACS and PRCS are conducted under the authority of Title 13, United States Code, Sections 141 and 193, and response is required by Section 221. The Census Bureau uses this information only for statistical purposes. We can assure you that your confidentiality is protected. Title 13 requires the Census Bureau to keep all information about you, and all other respondents, strictly confidential. Any Census Bureau employee who violates these provisions is subject to a fine up to $250,000 or a prison sentence up to five years, or both.