The U.S. Constitution requires a census every 10 years when every person living in the U.S. is counted, whether a U.S. citizen or not. The next decennial census begins April 1. An accurate count means that communities around the nation receive the funding, services, and business support they deserve and need.

Why is it important to be counted?

• The results are used to reapportion the House of Representatives, determining how many seats are allocated to each state. After each census, state officials use the results to redraw the boundaries of their congressional and state legislative districts, adapting to population shifts.
• It is a way to participate in our democracy and say “I Count”!
• Census data is also used to determine how more than $675 billion is allocated to support your state, county and community’s vital programs. Each person counted represents revenue of $2,100/person/year for 10 years for their county. If we miss 100 people in our area, that means a loss of more than $2 million over a ten year period!

What happens to my information?

• Federal law protects your census responses. Your answers can only be used to produce statistics. Your information CANNOT be shared with immigration or law enforcement agencies or be used to determine eligibility for government benefits.

How does it work?

• In March, you will receive an invitation in the mail to respond to the census online or via phone. If you have not responded online or by phone by mid-April, you will be sent a paper questionnaire. Anyone who does not respond after this time will be followed up with, in person, by a Census Bureau Employee.

What do they want to know?

• There are 9 questions on the census form which ask the number of people living in your home, what type of home you live in, do you own/rent, your telephone number, name, sex, age, race and Hispanic, Latino or Spanish origin, if applicable.

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