Census Information

Census Information

WiCount 2020 Census Support Wisconsin's Future

The 2020 Census counts: Be Counted!

 

Be Counted! Respond at https://2020census.gov/

 

What Is The Census? 

  • Every 10 years, the US government counts everyone in the country. We will have a census in 2020.
  • The census asks one person in every household to answer a few questions. You can answer the questions online, by phone, or by mail.
  • In March, the Government will send each household a letter in the mail.
  • In May – July, Census takers will begin visiting homes that have not yet responded to the 2020 Census.
  • People who live in a group facility such as a nursing home, group home or shelter are counted through the “Group Quarters” process. Beginning in April, Census staff will work with facility staff to set up a date and time. Residents will not receive a mailing.

Why Is The Census Important?

Money for Services and Programs.

  • Census results are used by federal, state and local government to make funding decisions for services and programs important to people. This includes education, housing, health care, transportation, mental health, and other services.
  • Completing the census helps your community receive the funding they need.

Representatives in Congress

  • The government will use 2020 Census results to determine how many Congressional Representatives each state should have.
  • If people don’t fill out the Census, a state might get fewer Representatives.
  • The Census influences where the boundaries of legislative, school, and voting districts are drawn.

The 2020 Census Should Be Accessible for Everyone 

  • If you have blindness or low vision, you can print a guide to the questionnaire in braille or large print from 2020CENSUS.GOV.
  • If you have deafness or hearing loss, you can:
    • Respond to the census by using telephone devices for hard of hearing. o Access video guides in American Sign Language on 2020CENSUS.GOV.
    • View online videos and webcasts with closed or open captioning.
    • Request a visit from a census taker who uses American Sign Language

How to Avoid Fraud 

It’s important to respond to the Census – but sometimes you may receive a fake call, mailing, email or visit. If you have concerns, contact the Census Bureau Regional Office at 1-800-865-6384.

These tips can help you tell if the information is the real thing.

  • The US Census Bureau will never ask for your full social security number, bank account number, passwords, or for money.
  • The US Census Bureau will mail you an invitation to respond online to the 2020 Census between March 12 – 20. A reminder letter and postcard will be sent to those who do not respond. They will not send you unsolicited emails.
  • If a census taker comes to your door, ask to check their identity:
    • Census takers must present an ID badge that includes their photograph, a Department of Commerce watermark and an expiration date.
    • Census workers will be carrying a Census Bureau laptop or cellphone, as well as a bag with a Census Bureau logo.
  • Your answers to the Census are private. The Government will not share your answers with anyone.

For More Information

 

Adapted from resources created by our partners with the Wisconsin Disability Vote Coalition.