Census FAQs
For more information about Census in your state please visit https://2020census.gov/
Why should I fill out the census?
Being counted in the census helps you and your family. Data from the census are used to divide over $1.5 trillion dollars of government funding annually for important services, like schools, libraries, food stamps, and health care. Data from the census are also used to divide up political representation in Congress and in your state; a complete count means fair representation for your community
Will citizenship be asked on the census?
The citizenship question will NOT be on the 2020 Census form.
How long will it take to complete the form?
There is no time limit. The Census Bureau estimates around 10 minutes. It is 10 questions, but we know that for people living in complicated households, it may take longer.
Do you have to complete the census online in one sitting?
Yes, for security reasons you need to complete the census in one sitting. The system will time out after 15 minutes of inactivity.
Can I skip questions?
The online system will allow you to skip answering certain questions, with a verification that you would like to skip the question.
In what languages can I fill out my census form?
The online questionnaire and telephone assistance are available in Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, Russian, Arabic, Tagalog, Polish, French, Haitian Creole, Portuguese, and Japanese. The Census Bureau is producing language glossaries, language identification cards, and language guides in 59 non-English languages which are available at www.2020census.gov/en/languages.html
Will I ever be emailed a form?
No, you will never be emailed a form.
Will any city or state government be able to see my response?
No, individual census responses can only be housed and kept within the Census Bureau.
Will the census cost me money?
The census will NOT cost anyone any money.
What if someone left me off the form?
You can fill out the form online or by phone using the “I don’t have a Census ID”. At the end of the census, the Census Bureau will fill in and combine information on the backend.
What if I move after April 1st, 2020?
Each household is counted where they are April 1st, 2020. If you move after April 1st, you are still counted where you were living April 1st.
How do I spot census frauds and scams?
Census scammers may try to contact you by phone, mail, or home visit, or even direct you to phony websites.
No genuine census survey or agent can:
- Ask for your Social Security number, bank, credit card, or account numbers
- Ask when you leave for or return from work
- Ask for money or donations
- Ask for support for a political party
- Threaten jail time
More info on how to spot scammers can be found here.
