Census Facts

The 2020 Census is mandated by the Constitution and conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau, a nonpartisan government agency. The 2020 Census will count the population in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and five U.S. territories.

Everyone is tasked with participating in the 2020 Census by July 31, 2020, but we strongly recommend completing it as soon as possible. Don’t wait for census staff to come knocking (literally) to follow up with you or your family—instead, fill out your census information online or by phone ASAP.

Census Timeline

January 21

The Census Bureau started counting the population in remote Alaska. The count officially began in the rural Alaskan village of Toksook Bay.

March 12 – March 20

Households receivedofficial Census Bureau mail with detailed information on how to respond to the 2020 Census online, by phone, or by mail.

April 1

This is Census Day, a key reference date for the 2020 Census—not a deadline. We use this day to determine who is counted and where in the 2020 Census. When you respond, you’ll tell the Census Bureau where you live as of April 1, 2020, and include everyone who usually lives and sleeps in your home. You can respond before or after that date. We encourage you to respond as soon as you can.

Starting mid-April

The Census Bureau mailed paper questionnaires to homes that had not yet responded online or by phone.

July 1 – September 3

Census takers will work with administrators at colleges, senior centers, prisons, and other facilities that house large groups of people to make sure everyone is counted.

December

The Census Bureau started counting the population in remote Alaska. The count officially began in the rural Alaskan village of Toksook Bay.

March 31

By this date, the Census Bureau will send redistricting counts to the states. This information is used to redraw legislative districts based on population changes.

2020 Census: Fast Facts

The U.S. Census is conducted once every ten years and counts every person living in the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and five U.S. territories.
Participation in the 2020 Census is required by law.
All reported census information is confidential.
Citizenship is neither reported nor required for participation.
Accurate census counts ensure states and local communities receive the funding and resources they deserve.

Job Opportunities

The U.S. Census Bureau is offering temporary employment positions to assist with the census. Visit 2020census.gov/en/jobs.html or call 1-855-JOB-2020 (1-855-562-2020) to learn more.

We strongly recommend completing the census early. Not only can you rest easy knowing you’ve done your civic duty, but you also won’t be pestered to fill it out in the coming months. Visit any Cleveland Public Library location for assistance.