Every 10 years the census counts everyone living in the United States. Every address will get a questionnaire by April 1st. The data is then used to inform funding for services like fire stations, schools, clinics, and representation that affects our communities. So how does the Census Bureau ensure that everyone is counted? On AINC, we talk with Ryan Hanschen of the Complete Count Committee and Mary Young of the Boulder City Council to find out.
The 2020 Census is accessible for everyone.
The Census Bureau is making sure that however you choose to respond—online, by phone, or by mail—that the census is accessible.You’ll receive an invitation to respond beginning in mid-March. You choose how you want to respond.
Respond online
in English or in 12 additional languages. The online questionnaire is accessible, following the latest web accessibility guidelines.
They will also have a video in American Sign Language available to guide you through responding online.
Respond by phone
- In English or in 12 additional languages
- You can also respond in English by TDD at 844-467-2020.
Paper Questionnaire
By mid-April, they will mail a paper questionnaire to every household that hasn’t already responded. (Some households will receive a paper questionnaire along with the first invitation in March.
They will have braille and large print guides available online to assist you with completing the paper questionnaire.
In Person
If necessary, you can respond in person beginning in mid-May. Census takers will visit all households that have not yet responded.
They will have census takers available who can communicate in American Sign Language and additional languages. When the census taker visits to help you respond, you can request that another census taker who communicates in American Sign Language returns, if you prefer.
If you prefer, you may also choose to have another member of your household interact with the census taker.
Responding is important. A complete count helps ensure that services like Medicare, Medicaid, social security, and public transportation can support those who need them.
Responding is safe. All of the information you share with them is protected by law and cannot be used against you.
Responding is accessible. They are doing everything they can to ensure the ways to respond are accessible for everyone.
Census Information in Audio
AINC is using organizational expertise in creating and disseminating information in audio format to reach anyone who, for whatever reason, can more directly benefit from receiving information in audio. AINC received a DOLA (Department of Local Affairs) grant to collaborate on raising awareness of the vital importance of full participation in filling out the census in 2020.
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