2014 Panel Wave 4: Processing Error Affecting Total Family Income

In the 2014 SIPP Panel, total family income including Type-2 persons (TFTOTINCT2) was calculated by comparing the number of people in the family with and without Type-2 persons (RFPERSONSWT2 and RFPERSONS) to determine whether there were any Type-2 persons in the family and whether Type-2 income should be added to the total family income (TFTOTINC). Comparing RFPERSONSWT2 and RFPERSONS is not a reliable way to determine whether there were any Type-2 persons in the family because families are edited and defined in the SIPP such that Type-2 persons are not always a simple addition to an existing family. In some instances, changes in family composition can occur when taking into account Type-2 persons. For example, an existing family could become two separate families when Type-2 persons are added because certain types of relationships are prioritized when editing and defining families. In these instances, total family income including Type-2 persons (TFTOTINCT2) was calculated incorrectly. Data users should be aware of this issue when analyzing total family income including Type-2 persons (TFTOTINCT2).

Page Last Revised - July 23, 2025