According to the U.S. Census Bureau, it takes respondents 40 minutes on average to complete the American Community Survey (ACS).  To gain feedback about the respondent experience, the Census Bureau conducted a survey of 1,000 ACS interviewers to identify questions perceived as difficult or intrusive for respondents. Based on the results of this survey and after working closely with other Federal agency stakeholders, including the OMB Interagency Committee for the ACS, the Census Bureau developed a variety of strategies for reducing respondent burden.

As part of this effort, the Census Bureau examined these high-burden survey questions that respondents found to be sensitive, personal, or difficult to answer.  Potential question modifications that may help reduce burden were developed by the Census Bureau and a set of Federal data users.  The Census Bureau contracted with Westat to conduct cognitive testing, in order to evaluate modifications to the following two ACS topics:

• Number of weeks worked last year
• Income last year

This report summarizes the research methods, findings, and recommendations from the cognitive interviews.