Everything You Need to Know About the 2020 Census
What is the Census?
Since the first census in 1790, the U.S. Census Bureau has collected data using a census "schedule," also called a "questionnaire” or “form." The Constitution mandates the enumeration to determine how to apportion the House of Representatives among the states.
Why is it Important?
Census results help determine how $675 billion dollars in federal funding are allocated to states and communities each year. It is estimated that for every person not counted in the 2020 census, Ohio loses $1,206 each year for a decade. The results also determine how many seats in Congress each state gets and data from the census provides information for state officials to redraw the boundaries of the congressional and state legislative districts. In other words, its about: fair representation, redistricting, and the distribution of federal funds.
Participating is your civic duty; taking the census is required and a great way to participate in our democracy!
How Do I Participate?
Households will have the option of responding online, by mail, or by phone. The Census Bureau expects many households to complete the questionnaire online, using instructions received in the mail. These instructions will also include information about how to respond by phone. The timeline is as follows:
On or between March 12th and the 20th, you will receive an invitation to respond online to the 2020 Census.
Between March 16th and the 24th you will receive a reminder letter.
If you haven’t responded yet:
You will receive a reminder postcard between March 26 and April 3rd.
Between April 8th and the 16th, you will receive another reminder letter and a paper questionnaire.
During the week of April 20th - 27th, you will receive a final reminder postcard before we follow up in person.
If you don’t respond by mail, email, or phone by the end of April, the census will send doorknockers to your door up to three times to have you fill out the census.
What Questions are Asked on the Census?
The Census is easy. You will answer a simple questionnaire about yourself and everyone who is living with you on April 1, 2020. Questions include: how many people living or staying with you, your telephone number, the names of every individual in your house, the sex of each individual, age, date of birth, and race. The citizenship question will not be listed on the 2020 census. For a sample copy of the 2020 Census Questionnaire, click here.
What Languages are Available?
For the 2020 Census, the U.S Census Bureau will provide the internet self-response form and census questionnaire assistance in 12 non-English languages. Language guides, language glossaries, and language identification cards will be available in the following 59 languages:
Is My Data Confidential?
The U.S. Census Bureau is bound by law (Title 13 of the U.S. Code) to protect your answers and keep them strictly confidential. Every employee takes an oath to protect your personal information for life. Under Title 13, the Census Bureau cannot release any identifiable information about you, your home, or your business, even to law enforcement agencies. The law ensures your private data is protected and your answers cannot be used against you by any government agency or court. Not totally convinced? This will reassure you: Census workers are not allowed to share your information under the penalty of a $250,000 fine and up to five years in prison.
What About Hard-To-Count Communities?
Hard-to-Count populations include young children, highly mobile persons, racial and ethnic minorities, non-English speakers, low income persons, persons experiencing homelessness, undocumented immigrants, persons who distrust the government, LGBTQ persons, persons with mental or physical disabilities, and persons who do not live in traditional housing. Census workers and working in partnerships with local agencies and non-profits to count these individuals. The Bureau has developed a robust contact strategy and multiple response options for these populations.