Time-series Estimates of Pension Benefits by State 1967-2000

In this paper we describe, compare, and evaluate the available data for preparing time-series estimates of pension benefits by state and present a set of such estimates for the years 1967 to 2000. We conclude that the Current Population Survey is the best source on the basis of timeliness and the length of the time series it can support. This data source, a household survey, is unlike the typical “complete count” administrative records used in the State Personal Income Accounts yet we demonstrate that it provides a geographic distribution very similar to the traditional data sources. Finally we show that state shares of pension benefits exhibit very different trends and these trends oftentimes are the opposite of those exhibited by their shares of social security benefits.