2020 Census
What is the 2020 Census?
The 2020 Census is mandated by the Constitution and conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau. The census counts the population in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and five U.S. territories. Each home will receive an invitation to respond to a short questionnaire—online, by phone, or by mail.
Why is the 2020 Census Important?
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. Responding to the census is a civic duty and affects the allocation of funding for a community’s public resources, future planning, and voice in government. An accurate count of the population is required by law and serves as the basis for fair political representation and distribution of government and non-profit funding. Responding to the 2020 Census is important for the following reasons:
- State population counts from the census are used to reapportion seats in the U.S. House of Representatives across the 50 states.
- State and local officials use census results to help redraw congressional, state, and local district boundaries to meet the one-person, one-vote rule.
- Governments and nonprofit organizations rely on census data to determine the need for new roads, hospitals, schools, and other public-sector investments. Census data is also vital to businesses to address the changing needs of the U.S. population.
- In 2015, Census data was used to distribute more than $675 billion in federal funds to states and local communities for health, education, housing, and infrastructure programs.
Is the 2020 Census Secure?
Responses to the 2020 Census are safe, secure, and protected by federal law. Answers can only be used to produce statistics and cannot be used against any person in any way. All responses to U.S. Census Bureau household and business surveys are kept completely confidential by law.
Residents have the option to respond online, by mail, or by phone. Households that do not respond in one of these ways will be visited by a census taker to collect the information in person. Regardless of how you respond, your personal information is protected by law.
Will filling out the 2020 Census impact whether you receive a stimulus check?
No, your answers cannot be used to impact your eligibility for any government benefits, including any potential stimulus package. The Census Bureau is bound by Title 13 of the U.S. Code to keep your information confidential, and the answers you provide are used only to produce statistics.
2020 Census Bureau Security Flyer
2020 Census Timeline
| Date | Mailing |
|---|---|
| March 12-20 | 2020 Census invitation letter |
| March 16-24 | Reminder letter |
| March 26 - April 3 | Reminder postcard |
| April 1 | Census Day |
| April 8-16 | Reminder letter & questionnaire |
| April 20-27 | Final reminder postcard |
| May 27 - August 14 | In-person follow up with non-responders |
The U.S. Census Bureau has shortened its timeline to respond to the 2020 Census. The last day to respond is
Wednesday, September 30th. Both self-response options and field collection efforts will end on this day.
Resources & Links
U.S. Census Bureau Website
2020 Census Facts
Lisle Library District