Census

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe?

Yes, responding to the census is safe. By federal law census information can only be used for statistical purposes and cannot be shared with other government agencies or law enforcement. Census data will not affect public benefits or taxes. There are no questions related to citizenship or immigration status.

Is it quick?

Yes, completing the census will take less than 10 minutes and can be completed online at my2020census.gov from a computer or mobile device. You can also respond by phone or mail.

Is it important?

Each person counted represents over $3,000 annually in funding for vital community programs like education, healthcare, parks, libraries, transportation, senior services, and public safety.

Governments and businesses also use census data to decide where to locate or expand services, facilities, jobs, restaurants, and retail stores.

Key points

  • Due to COVID-19 the deadline to respond to the 2020 Census has been extended until October 15. Complete the census now.
  • The US Constitution requires that a census be conducted every 10 years to count the number of people living in the United States.
  • Having an accurate count is critical because census figures are used to distribute more than $675 billion dollars in federal funds and each resident counted will equal approximately $3,000 yearly in state, federal, and regional funds for Glendale.
  • These dollars support critical services in our community including public safety, education, healthcare, transportation, and housing.
  • Because the census count is also used to determine state and federal electoral districts, an accurate count will also ensure that our community receives the appropriate number of representatives in the state legislature and Congress.
  • By federal law all personal information collected is confidential, can only be used for statistical purposes, and may not be shared with any other government agencies. Any violation carries a penalty of up to $250,000 and/or up to five years in prison.
  • For the first time, this year residents will be able to respond to the census questionnaire online. Residents can also respond by phone or request a paper form.
  • For additional information residents can visit the official 2020 Census website at www.2020census.gov

How do I know the person at my door works for the Census Bureau?

Census employees will have:

  • Badges with photo IDs
  • Black canvas bags and laptops with 2020 Census Logo

Census employees will never ask for personal information such as social security numbers, banking information, or donations of any kind.

When will Census Bureau employees be in my neighborhood?

Census Bureau employees will begin door-to-door follow up in August to households that have not already responded to the questionnaire.

Important Links

Census 2020 Website

Census 2020Census 2020

What is the Census?

2020 Census Operational Overview

Establish Where to Count

Identify All Addresses Where People Could Live

  • Conduct a 100-percent review and update of the Census Bureau's address list
  • Use multiple data sources to identify areas with address changes
  • Receive local government input
  • Conduct In-Field Address Canvassing

Count the Population

Collect Data From All Households

  • Make it easy for people to respond anytime, anywhere
  • Encourage people to use the Online response option
  • Use the most cost-effective strategy to contact and count
  • Streamline in-field census taking/Knock on doors

Motivate People to Respond

Conduct Nationwide Communications & Partnership Campaign

  • Work with trusted sources to increase participation
  • Maximize outreach using traditional and new media
  • Receive local government input.
  • Target advertisements to specific audiences

Release Census Data

Process and Provide Census Data

  • Deliver appointment counts to the President by December 31, 2020
  • Release counts for redistricting by April 1, 2021
  • Make it easier for the public to get information

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