The US government is considering recognizing women’s unpaid household labor as actual work, a shift that could reshape economic understanding. Currently, such work goes unrecognized in official economic measures. A potential change involves the Bureau of Labor Statistics modifying its Consumer Expenditure Survey to incorporate the value of unpaid work. Research suggests that nearly 80% of household upkeep and family care work is performed by women, amounting to an estimated $3.6 trillion annually. Unrecognized labor contributes significantly to the economy and plays a pivotal role in households.
How much do we owe women for childcare and housework? A staggering $3.6 trillion
Updated on May 8, 2024