Unit nonresponse issues during 2018 data collection may impact estimates. To account for differential nonresponse, data users can apply weights so that estimates are representative of the nation; however, applying the provided weights in 2018 SIPP may still produce inconsistent estimates for specific content versus prior years. While the Census Bureau creates weights designed to adjust for nonresponse and to control weighted counts to independent population estimates by age, sex, race, and Hispanic origin, the magnitude of the increase in (and differential nature of) nonresponse during 2018 data collection likely reduced their efficacy.

Additional information on nonresponse bias for calendar year 2018 will be available in the Nonresponse Bias Report for Calendar Year 2018 of the Survey of Income and Program Participation (SIPP) report, available October 2020.