What Is the 2020 Census?
Every 10 years the U.S. Census Bureau, a nonpartisan government agency, conducts the decennial Census as mandated in Article 1, Section 2 of the U.S. Constitution. The 2020 Census counts every person living in the 50 states, District of Columbia and five U.S. territories. Each household will receive an invitation to respond to a short questionnaire—online, by phone or by mail. This year marks the first time that you will be able to respond to the census online.

What is the purpose of the 2020 Census?
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. It also helps to determine federal funding decisions that go toward hospitals, fire departments, schools, roads and more.

Participating in the Census is required by law, even if you recently completed another survey from the Census Bureau like the American Community Survey. A complete and accurate count is critical for you and your community, because the results of the 2020 Census will affect community funding, congressional representation and more.

What are the questions asked in the 2020 Census?
Completing the Census should take no more than 10 minutes of your time and involves a simple questionnaire about yourself and everyone who is living with you on April 1, 2020.

The Census Bureau’s sample questionnaire allows you to view the questions you will be asked and understand how the Census Bureau will use your answers.

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