Answers to frequently asked questions about the 2010 Census
What is the 2010 Census?
The Census is a count of everyone in the United States, conducted every 10 years.
When is the 2010 Census?
The 2010 Census will take place on Thursday, April 1, 2010.
Why do we have a Census?
The U.S. Constitution requires it. The Census determines representation in the U.S. Congress. Census numbers are also used to allocate federal and state funding and redraw state legislative boundaries. The public and private sectors use census results for numerous planning needs.
How does the Census determine Congressional representation?
In accordance with the population actually counted in the Census, seats in the United States House of Representatives are reapportioned.
How does the Census Bureau count us?
The Census Bureau mails questionnaires mid-March. After completing the form, recipients should mail it back to the Census Bureau by Census Day on Thursday, April 1, 2010.
What questions does the 2010 Census ask?
The Census asks four general questions about the household, such as whether you own or rent your home, and six questions about each individual in the household, including name, sex, age, date of birth and race. The Census form is online.
Who should complete the Census form?
A head of household should complete the form on behalf of every person living in the residence on April 1, 2010, including relatives and non-relatives.
Why does the Census want names?
The Census requests names to ensure people are not counted twice and to allow you (only you) the right to obtain a record from the Census Bureau at a later time for proving age or citizenship.
How long will it take to fill out the form?
Approximately 10 minutes, depending on the number of individuals in the household.
Who decides what questions are asked?
The United States Congress approves the form and all procedures for the Census.
Why is it important to take part in the 2010 Census?
Participation in the 2010 Census is vital and required by law. Census Bureau employees will make every effort to get a response from each household. Census information helps determine community funding and is used for effective city planning to better serve citizens and enhance the quality of life in our community.
How does the Census Bureau count people without a permanent residence?
Census Bureau workers undertake extensive operations to count people living in group quarters, such as college dormitories, military barracks, nursing homes and shelters, and those displaced by natural disasters.
How can people get help with completing the form?
Assistance guides are available in 59 languages. Questionnaire Assistance Centers will also assist those unable to read or understand the form. A Teletext Device for the Deaf program will help persons with hearing disabilities.
Why does the Census Bureau ask about race and Hispanic origin?
The Census Bureau collects race data in accordance with guidelines provided by the U.S. Office of Management and Budget. Information on race is required for many federal programs and used to assess health and environmental risks.
Does the Census Bureau share information with Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Internal Revenue Service, courts or police?
No. It is against the law for the Census Bureau to give personally identifiable information about an individual to any other individual or agency until 72 years after it is collected.
Where can I get more information?
Contact the Minnesota State Demographic Center at 651-201-2473 or the Census Bureau’s Kansas City Regional Office at 816-298-9675, www.census.gov/2010census/.