Show All Answers

1. Who gets counted?

Everyone! Mandated by the U.S. Constitution, the Census counts all people who reside in the United States, regardless of citizenship or immigration status.

2. What is the Census?

The United States Census is a national population count that occurs every ten years.

3. Where can I be counted?

For the first time, online! Also, by telephone, or via mail! This is the first Census to go digital, so you can fill out your household survey on your home computer or at any of the internet enabled Census Action Kiosks, which will be available at convenient locations in Westland.

4. When is the Census?

By Census Day, April 1, 2020, the U.S. Census Bureau will mail letters to every household in the United States inviting all to respond to the Census survey. Every household should receive a letter requesting that they complete a census survey online, by mail, or phone by July, 2020.

5. Why do we have a Census?

The data collected from the Census is used to make sure everyone is equally represented in our political system and that government resources are allocated fairly. The Census data determines:

• How many congressional seats a state receives
• How much federal funding will be allocated to local communities for public services and infrastructure needs
• Provides a picture of the changing demographics of the country

6. What questions does the Census survey ask?

For the 2020 Census, the U.S. Census Bureau will only visit homes that do not respond to the Census.

7. Will the Census be available in other languages?

Yes, the online survey will be offered in thirteen different languages, including English. You may also answer the questions by phone in English and 12 Non-English languages. Paper Census surveys will only be available in English and Spanish. Print and video language guides will be available in 59 Non-English languages, including American Sign Language, Braille, and large print.

8. Is the Census safe?

Under federal census law, your responses are kept confidential and can only be used by the U.S. Census Bureau to produce statistics.

9. Can another government agency access my Census information?

No. Title 13 of the U.S. Code requires your information to be kept confidential and prevents your responses from being used against you by any government agency- including law enforcement, the Department of Homeland Security, or U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

10. How long does my information stay private?

Personal census information cannot be disclosed for 72 years, including names, addresses, and telephone numbers.

11. Do I need a Social Security number to complete the Census?

No. It’s important to remember that the U.S. Census Bureau will never ask for:

• Bank or credit card information
• Money or donations
• Political party affiliation
• A social security number
• Your mother’s maiden name

12. What if I need help?

If you live in Westland and need help completing the census, email to Moe Ayoub. We will direct you to the resources you need.