FEB. 1, 2023 ― The U.S. Census Bureau today announced the launch of a standard application process (SAP) developed by federal statistical agencies for applying for access to confidential microdata for research with an evidence-building purpose. Applicants can now apply for access on one consolidated portal at ResearchDataGov.org. Visitors to the portal can browse a catalog of protected data assets from federal statistical agencies and units and apply from the same website.

Federal statistical agencies, including the Census Bureau, developed the SAP portal in response to the Foundations for Evidence-Based Policymaking Act of 2018, to make it easier for appropriate institutions, government entities and individuals to access data. Beginning today, the Federal Statistical Research Data Center (FSRDC) program (managed by the Census Bureau on behalf of its partner agencies and research institutions) and all principal federal statistical agencies and units will require applications to be submitted using the SAP portal.

Applications are limited to projects with an evidence-building purpose. More information about the transition can be found on the SAP informational website and in SAP Frequently Asked Questions. Information about applying for access to Census Bureau restricted-use microdata in the FSRDC using the SAP portal is available on the Census Bureau’s standard application process website. For assistance with applications, contact a FSRDC administrator. For general questions, email ced.fsrdc.info@census.gov.

No news release associated with this report. Tip sheet only.

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