The Census Bureau shall perform nonresponse bias analyses for the Monthly Retail Trade Survey results based on comparisons of respondent data to characteristics of comparable nonrespondents from supplemental sources and submit them with plans to increase response rates with the next ICR for this survey. Also prior to the commencement of the Monthly Retail Trade Survey forms distribution, the Census Bureau shall provide on its Internet site prominent links to a set of finalized survey forms, including instructions and cover letters, comparable to those provided for the 2012 Economic Census report forms. The final forms, instructions, and letters shall reflect any changes in the survey period, OMB number expiration date, and Census or Commerce leadership from those submitted for review.
Inventory as of this Action
Requested
Previously Approved
07/31/2017
36 Months From Approved
11/30/2014
123,660
0
104,568
14,427
0
12,200
0
0
0
The Monthly Retail Trade Survey provides estimates of monthly retail sales, end-of-month merchandise inventories, and quarterly e-commerce sales of retailers in the United States by selected kinds of business. Also, it provides monthly sales of food service establishments. The Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) uses this information to prepare the National Income and Products Accounts and to benchmark the annual input-output tables. Statistics provided from the Current Retail Sales and Inventory Survey are used to calculate the gross domestic product (GDP).
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that the collection of information encompassed by this request complies with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR 1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding the proposed collection of information, that the certification covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.