The Statistical Abstract of the United States, published since 1878, is the standard summary of statistics on the social, political, and economic organization of the United States. It is designed to serve as a convenient volume for statistical reference and as a guide to other statistical publications and sources. The latter function is served by the introductory text to each section, the source note appearing below each table, and Appendix I, which comprises the Guide to Sources of Statistics, the Guide to State Statistical Abstracts, and the Guide to Foreign Statistical Abstracts.

This is a compendium and guide to statistics on just about everything in the United States. The section on "Business Enterprises" includes incorporations, failures, small business data, and tax returns. Among the several appendixes is a list of state statistical abstracts.