Everyone must respond to the Census. The U.S. Constitution mandates a complete count of all persons residing in the United States. It is crucial that everyone is counted to ensure a fair distribution of resources.
Your Census ID is the 12-digit number on your questionnaire, letter, and postcard. If you lose your Census ID, you can still respond online at my2020census.gov. Click the link located below the Census ID login field that says: “If you do not have a Census ID, click here.”
You should count everyone who is living in your home on April 1, 2020. Remember to count any children who are living with you. This includes:
- Foster children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and the children of friends (even if they are living with you temporarily).
- Children who split their time between homes, if they are living with you on April 1, 2020.
- Newborn babies, even those who are born on April 1, 2020, or who are still in the hospital on this date.
The 2020 Census will NOT include a question about an individual’s citizenship status. Everyone is required to complete the Census, so an incomplete questionnaire may increase the chances of nonresponse follow-up by the U.S. Census Bureau. Your information is protected.
U.S. Census Bureau field staff will always show a valid Census Bureau ID, which includes their photograph, a U.S. Department of Commerce watermark, and an expiration date. The U.S. Census Bureau will never ask for the following:
- Payment to fill out the questionnaire
- Social Security number
- Financial information, such as bank account or credit card numbers
You can confirm they are a U.S. Census Bureau employee by verifying their identity online at https://www.census.gov/cgi-bin/main/email.cgi. It is a federal crime to impersonate a federal official, and anyone who violates this law is subject to imprisonment.
If you suspect fraud, call the U.S. Census Bureau California Regional Office at 213-314-6500 or toll–free at 800-923-8282. Contact your local police department if they determine the visitor does not work for the Census Bureau.
