In recent years, lower rates of return for household-based travel surveys have become a reality. It may be difficult to collect enough data for effective transportation planning. Various incentive methods have been used to induce survey recipients to participate fully. Incentive methods will be described (along with other factors affecting rates of return), and their apparent effect on rates of return discussed. It appears that monetary incentives sent with survey materials are most effective in increasing return rates; nonmonetary incentives offered with survey packets are somewhat less effective. The data are inconclusive regarding monetary and nonmonetary incentives offered as a reward upon completion of surveys.