The US Census Bureau has changed the deadline for completing the census from October 31st to September 30th. We are used to census takers coming to our door every 10 years, but in 2020 amidst the Covid-19 crisis, everything looks different.
You might receive calls, emails, or text messages from the US Census Bureau to encourage you and your family to get counted, asap. Below are some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and answers to help you prepare and respond.
FAQs about the Bureau's 2020 Outreach Program:
Who can
expect an
email or
a text?
The Census Bureau sent emails to households in areas with lower than a 50% response rate. People who may have already responded to the 2020 Census may receive an email or text.
How do I verify that
the email is
actually coming from the Census Bureau?
The Census Bureau is only sending emails about the decennial census from 2020census@subscriptions.census.gov. (note: this is different from the COVID-19 pulse survey email address)
How do I verify that the text message is
actually coming from the Census Bureau?
Some surveys such as the Household Pulse Survey or 2020 Census User Experience Survey may contact you via text message. The Household Pulse Survey uses the number 39242 (message and data rates may apply*) to send a link to complete the survey online. The 2020 Census User Experience Survey uses the numbers: (833) 972-2561, (833) 969-2724, and (833) 972-2579 (message and data rates may apply*).
If I already responded, why am
I receiving
an email?
The Census Bureau sent emails
to all households in low-responding areas (below a 50% response rate) that they had contact information for.
How did the
Census Bureau
get my email or
cell number?
As part of the effort to invite households to respond during
COVID-19, prior census surveys, commercial data, and state administrative records
(WIC, SNAP, etc).
I received an email and am not sure if I already responded. Should I still fill out the form?
Yes, everyone should be counted.
If you are not sure, it's better to fill
out the form than lose your
once-in-a-decade chance.
In addition, the Census Bureau may call households as part of Non-Response Follow Up operations. Enumerators will call from their bureau-issued phones and, if the call goes unanswered, will leave a voicemail to contact one of the regional call centers.
Need more info? Contact the Bureau at their support numbers.
Most importantly, GET COUNTED TODAY!
Still wondering why it’s important to get counted by the Census?
Listen to your Faith community.
The census has the power to give your community a voice and to shape its future.
Participating in the census is how we make sure our communities are represented by people who listen to us and understand what we need!
