Operating seamlessly, safely stewarding sensitive data resources

The Federal statistical system provides the gold-standard for impartial, trusted Federal statistics, foundational to informing decisions across the public and private sectors. The Executive Branch, the Congress, businesses, and members of the public rely upon the Federal statistical system to provide objective, credible, and reliable data.

• On July 13, 2026, OMB published a Federal Register Notice for comment on proposed updates for the 2027 North American Industry Classification System (NAICS). Comments are due by August 12, 2026, and can be submitted on regulations.gov here.
• The Federal Committee on Statistical Methodology hosted its 2026 conference on March 11-12, 2026 for current federal employees. Presentations highlighted innovations and best practices supporting the production of high-quality, relevant, and timely federal statistics.

The Federal statistical system is guided by specific laws, policies, and guidance. These are foundational for the key responsibilities of the U.S. Chief Statistician and the Office of Management and Budget; statistical agencies, units, and programs; Statistical Officials; and agencies across the Federal Government.

The Federal statistical system collaborates on products to promote understanding of its initiatives, priorities, budgets, and activities, as well as on developing tools and resources to better support data users.

For questions about or assistance with completing a federal survey, connect with the federal agency conducting or sponsoring the survey. Click here to learn about the statistical agencies. Approved federal surveys are issued an official OMB control number, which must be visible on survey forms, or available by asking the interviewer.

Federal law requires agencies to have public inventories of data sets. Many are also listed on the federal government’s data catalog. To discover available data sets and apply for access to restricted and confidential data for evidence building, visit the Federal statistical system’s Standard Application Process and its growing data catalog.