Statistical Methodology
The sample universe consists of about 8 million recipients. We have completed at least 95 percent of each sample using Form SSA-8508 BK since we began sample reviews in September 1973. There is no reason to expect a change in future response rates, as we have not changed our methodology.
Procedures for Collecting the Information
The sample is a random sample. The Social Security Administration (SSA) divides the nation into 10 regions. We select a random sample for each region. Since the probability of selection varies by region, we have the capability to use the final sample data to produce regional as well as national data.
We collect and report information from Form SSA-8508 BK on an annual cycle, and we can generalize the reported data to the sample universe with a confidence level of 95 percent within a range of plus or minus 3 percent for the nation.
Methods to Maximize Response Rates
Initially, we solicit Respondents’ cooperation by mailing an advance notification letter, a return contact sheet, and a Form SSA-97 (a checklist for the respondents’ use), OMB Control No. 0960-0432. Whenever a reviewer encounters an uncooperative respondent, we solicit field office (FO) assistance, and may reassign the case to another reviewer. If we are unable to complete an interview with the potential respondent, we may request FO case file material and, if it contains sufficient information, we use it in lieu of the recipient interview. The reviewer will exclude a case from the sample only after we explore all reasonable alternatives. The sample size allows for a reasonable number of exclusions without affecting confidence levels. Whenever we cannot locate the sampled individual, we request FO assistance to find the recipient. If the FO cannot locate the recipient, we suspend payments pending further investigation. This is one of SSA's payment safeguards.
Tests of Procedure
We are not taking any formal testing of Form SSA-8508-BK information collection and reporting methods at this time.
Statistical Agency Contact for Statistical Information
Daniel Zabronsky is the agency's statistician responsible for reviewing and approving the statistical aspects of the survey design. His contact number is (410) 965-5953. The SSA Office of Quality Review (OQR) collects, analyzes, and reports on the information obtained from the review.
| File Type | application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document |
| Author | 889123 |
| File Modified | 0000-00-00 |
| File Created | 2021-01-15 |