The 2020 Census is coming up! What is it? Why should you care? Can the information you share be used against you? Here are your frequently asked questions with answers.
What is the Census?
Once every ten years, the census takes place to have an accurate count of how many people are living in
the United States. This is required by the Constitution. Invitations to complete the census form will be
mailed out around March 12 – 20 and you can respond online, by mail or by phone.
Why is the census important?
- Allocation for funding and resources
It is important to know who is living where to ensure that funding and resources such as hospitals,
schools, roads, and other public resources we all use are allocated fairly to the communities that
need them.
- Legislative districts
Districts are redrawn every ten years to account for population changes.
- Fair Representation
Census data is used to reapportion representatives in the U.S. House of Representatives to
determine how many seats each state receives.
- Local governments
Local governments use census data to plan effective public safety and emergency response.
- Businesses
Businesses use census data to determine where to build new factories, offices and stores which
creates new jobs.
Who should complete the Census?
EVERYONE! The census counts every person living in the United States, regardless of citizenship or legal
status.
Why should I complete the census?
The census accounts for how roughly $800 billion tax dollars will be spent. This money goes to things like roads, parks, public transportation and more. Each person who takes the census brings in more than $2300 in funding to Fulton County!
Is there a citizenship question on the census?
There is no citizenship question on the form. Additionally, you will not be asked for your social
security number, bank accounts, or political affiliations. All information is confidential and will only be
used for statistical purposes.
Is there a cost to take the census?
There is no fee required to complete the census.
For more information:
https://www.fultoncountyga.gov/inside-fulton-county/fulton-county-initiatives/census-2020
https://2020census.gov/content/dam/2020census/materials/languages/guides/English-Guide.pdf
Para más información:
https://2020census.gov/content/dam/2020census/materials/languages/guides/Spanish-Guide.pdf