Why do we collect your data? Simply put, because all data tell a story. Data provide a snapshot of our country, and give us critical information about our economy, society and environment. The information you provide is converted into statistics used by communities, businesses and governments to plan services and make informed decisions about employment, education, health care, market development and more.
For more than 100 years, we have been trusted to produce accurate data that represent you, your community and your country. As the national statistical office, Statistics Canada is legislated through the Statistics Act to provide data and insights for the people of Canada. Learn more below about why we collect data and how we use them on your behalf to build a better Canada.
Why we collect data
Surveys and statistical programs
Statistics Canada conducts over 350 surveys and statistical programs on an ongoing basis to measure and report on the state of Canada's economy and society.
Why does my information need to be collected?
As Canada's central statistical office, Statistics Canada is legislated through the Statistics Act to provide statistics for Canada and its provinces and territories.
Statistics Canada and disaggregated data
Find out how using disaggregated data helps support evidence-based policy development and decision-making.
Custom surveys
Statistics Canada offers its survey development, collection and analytical expertise to assist Canadian organizations with their data needs on a cost-recovery basis.
How we collect data
Is this a legitimate survey?
Find out more on how to verify that the survey is conducted by Statistics Canada.
Use of telephone and cellphone numbers
Find out more about how and why Statistics Canada acquires and uses telephone numbers.
What is administrative data?
To fulfil its mandate, Statistics Canada uses new and existing data sources for official statistics.
