What is the 2020 Census?
The 2020 Census is a count of everyone living in the United States and is mandated by the United States Constitution. The decennial census counts each person in the United States and its territories, where they live on April 1, 2020 and every ten years ending in zero.
Why does the census happen every ten years?
The Constitution of the United States, Article 1, Sections 2 and 9 directs that a census or population count be taken every ten years. The census serves as a means to take that count.
Do I have to respond to the 2020 Census?
Yes, response is required by law. Answers are kept confidential and your responses will only be used to produce statistics.
Are responses to the Census confidential?
Yes, strict confidentiality laws protect respondents and the information they provide. For more information on confidentiality and how your data is used, visit: ask.census.gov
Where can I send someone who does not have internet access?
All Henrico County Library locations have computers open to the public. Library locations can be found at https://henricolibrary.org/locations.
How Can You Verify That Someone Is a Census Worker?
If someone visits your home to collect information for the 2020 Census, you can do the following to verify their identity:
- First, check to make sure that they have a valid ID badge, with their photograph, a U.S. Department of Commerce watermark, and an expiration date.
- If you still have questions about their identity, you can contact your Regional Census Center to speak with a Census Bureau representative.
What should you do if you suspect someone is trying to commit fraud or a scam regarding the Census?
Avoiding Scams Online
Phishing is a criminal act in which someone tries to get your information by pretending to be an entity that you trust. Phishing emails often direct you to a website that looks real but is fake—and may be infected with malware.
It is important to know that the Census Bureau will not send unsolicited emails to request your participation in the 2020 Census. Further, during the 2020 Census, the Census Bureau will never ask for:
- Your Social Security number.
- Your bank account or credit card numbers.
- Anything on behalf of a political party.
- Money or donations.
In addition, the Census Bureau will not contact you on behalf of a political party.
Staying Safe at Home
If someone visits your home to collect a response for the 2020 Census, you can do the following to verify their identity:
- First, check to make sure that they have a valid ID badge, with their photograph, a U.S. Department of Commerce watermark, and an expiration date.
- If you still have questions about their identity, you can call 844-330-2020 to speak with a Census Bureau representative.
