HRS Restricted Data: Overview

Are you planning to use one or more of the restricted data files provided by the Health and Retirement Study? Begin by inspecting the What's Available and Order Form pages to see the list of available restricted data products. Then review the following step-by-step flowchart (or text narrative) which outlines procedures for preparing and submitting the Restricted Data Application that must be approved in order for you to obtain these files. For details on merge restrictions, please review the HRS File Merge Cross-Reference Table. Note: In preparing your data protection plan, be sure to refer to the Data Protection Plan Checklist.

Special procedures must be followed to obtain Medicare claims and summary data. See Medicare Claims and Summary Data — Application Procedures for more information on how to proceed.