| This dissertation consists of three essays. Chapter 1 examines the long-term consequences of disability. Using longitudinal data for the period 1968-2005 from a sample of male household heads, we determine the prevalence of disability and examine how disability affects several economic outcomes. We have four main findings. First, disability rates are high. Second, various economic declines differ sharply across disability groups. Declines for the most disabled group are more than twice as large as those for the average disabled. Third, individual savings, family support, and social insurance contribute to reductions in the declines in consumption that follow disability. Fourth, there is a noticeable reduction in earnings and income prior to the onset of a reported disability. Using a two period model, we find that the current compensation for our most disabled group appears to be lower than is optimal.;In Chapter 2, we evaluate qualities of five major household surveys along one dimension -- the level of benefit underreporting. Benefit receipt in household surveys is often underreported due to imperfect interviewer recall, a desire to reduce interview burden, stigma associated with program participation, or the sensitivity of income information. We compare the weighted totals reported by households for various income programs calculated to those published by government organizations. Results indicate significant differences across programs and surveys as well as over time. The reporting rates we provide can also be used to adjust estimated program effects on income distribution as well as program take-up estimates.;In Chapter 3, we examine racial and gender differences in employer provided health insurance and pensions. Using data from the Current Population Survey and the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth, we first study recent trends in the recipiency of these non-wage compensation sources across race and gender groups. We find that while black men on average are less likely to receive these fringe benefits than white men in the last decade, the gap has become smaller over time. Using a measure of total labor compensation, we find that the percentage differences in total compensation and that in wages across racial groups are essentially the same. |
