Every 10 years, the United States Consititution requires a headcount of all the people living in the US. This count is called the Census.
You might be asking yourself, "Why is it important for me to complete the Census?"
Not only is it required by law for everyone living in the United States and its five territories to be counted in the 2020 Census, but it also impacts essential leadership and funding decisions right in your own neighborhood, including government representation and funding for schools, healthcare, and other vital infrastructure.
As important events and forms move online, it is increasingly important to have access to technology and the internet. If you need to get connected, ConnectHome Akron wants to help! Visit our "How It Works" page to learn more!
Watch the video below for more info on what the Census is!
How do I take the Census?
As of 2020, you can now take the Census online, by phone, or by mail.
Each of these steps may differ, so please check out the offical Census website for more information.
Important dates and other information
Overall Timeline
The Census is a massive undertaking that takes years of preperation. If you have questions about the overall timeline or dates to remember, read on for the overall timeline.
2020
- 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 received official 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.
- August 11 – October 31: Census takers will interview homes that haven't responded to the 2020 Census to help make sure everyone is counted.
- December: The Census Bureau will deliver apportionment counts to the President and Congress as required by law.
2021
- 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.
Already Completed:
- January - September 2019: The U.S. Census Bureau opened more than 200 area census offices across the country. These offices support and manage the census takers who work all over the country to conduct the census.
- August - October 2019: Census workers visited areas that have experienced a lot of change and growth to ensure that the Census Bureau's address list is up to date. This process is called address canvassing, and it helps to make sure everyone receives an invitation to participate in the census.
Rumor Has It... Wrong!
Every Census year, rumors come out and circulate about the purpose of the Census and what it really is. Don't take these rumors at face value, because they are incorrect! Do you have questions or concerns about the Census? Visit the Census 2020's page on rumors below to set the record straight!