Being Counted for Census 2020 Benefits Young Children and Families

The Census happens once at the start of every decade to gain an accurate count of every resident in the United States. There are many misunderstandings and myths about why the Census is taken and its importance, which in part caused an estimated one million children under five years of age to not be counted in the 2010 Census

What Is True Regarding the Census 2020 Results?

  • Census results are CONFIDENTIAL and WILL NOT be shared with immigration enforcement agencies like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), law enforcement agencies like the police or Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), or allow this information to be used to determine eligibility for government benefits.

  • Everyone should be counted, including new babies and all residents even if they are not U.S. citizens.

  • Filling out the Census only takes about 10 minutes.

  • The Census 2020 is available in 13 languages, including English. Language guides will be available in 59 languages other than English

Why Should You Be Counted and Encourage Your Family and Neighbors to Participate Too?

  • The Census produces an accurate population and household count that is the basis for making sure that each state gets fair representation in the House of Congress.

  • It enables our state officials to use the results to redraw the boundaries of their congressional and state legislative districts.

  • The Census aids in determining the distribution of $675 billion in federal funds that supports state, county and local programs such as the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP), the National School Lunch Program, housing, education, transportation, employment and health care.

What Communities are Hard to Count?

  • Non-English-speaking residents.

  • Recent immigrants, including those who are in the country illegally.

  • Children living in a large, multi-generational household or one that includes extended or several families.

  • Children who split time between two homes such as in divorced families.

  • Children who live in lower income households.

  • Young parents, single moms and their children.

Have more questions about the Census or want to know how you can help? See below.

More Information: