We started a new decade, which means it’s time for a new census! Every 10 years, the United States Census Bureau conducts a survey of how many people live in the United States. The census provides critical data that lawmakers, business owners, teachers, and many others use to provide daily services, products, and support for you and your community. Every year, billions of dollars in federal funding go to hospitals, fire departments, schools, roads, and other resources based on census data.
April 1, 2020 you should receive an invitation to participate in the census. It’s important to participate as it affects the amount of funding your community will receive. Keep in mind, the census is filled out by household, not person. You will only receive one 2020 Census packet for your household.
Most of the information requested in the census regards how many live in your household and your basic information. The Census Bureau will never ask for your social security numbers, bank or credit card information, money, donations, or questions about your political party. If you receive any questions like this, do not answer and call your local law enforcement. Scammers will look for any way to take advantage of victims during the Census collection time.
It is important to know the Census Bureau will not send unsolicited emails to request your participation. Many scammers will use phishing emails as an attempt to gain access to your personal information. However, Census Bureau representatives do go door-to-door collecting responses. If a representative comes to your door, look for a valid identification badge with their photograph, a U.S. Department of Commerce watermark, and an expiration date. If you have doubts about their identity or someone is asking for personal information, call 800-923-8282 to speak with a local Census Bureau representative. If they do not have their information on file, report the incident to the police.
To view all 2020 Census Bureau questions and other information, visit https://2020census.gov/en/about-questions.html.
