Frequently asked questions about the 2020 Census

Thursday, January 09, 2020

The Census, conducted once every 10 years, is the constitutionally-required count of every person living in the United States. Census data are used to make decisions about how and where to spend more than $800 billion each year for programs and services that communities rely on, such as schools, roads, hospitals, libraries, and other public services.

Most households will receive their Census materials by U.S. mail or hand-delivery starting in mid-March. The online and telephone response options will be available March 12, 2020. By April 1, 2020, you will receive an invitation to participate in the Census.

Need to know more? Read the answers to frequently asked questions about the 2020 Census.