- Tuesday, September 08, 2020
Census 2020 ends on September 30 and it isn’t too late for you to take part! Read on to find out how you can participate and learn a few facts to help understand why a complete count is so important.
1: Filling out the 2020 Census is quick and easy.
There are three ways to respond:
- Online at My2020Census.gov – it’s secure, confidential, and only takes about 10 minutes.
- By phone – representatives are available every day from 7 am to 2 am Eastern time at 844-330-2020. Visit the Responding by Phone page for a complete listing of additional numbers for services in languages other than English and for TDD.
- By mail – the Census Bureau began mailing paper questionnaires in April to homes that had not yet responded. Simply complete the form and return using the provided envelope.
Plus, Richland Library is here to help! If you need assistance filling out the 2020 Census, give us a call at (803) 569-3565 from 9 am – 4 pm, Monday through Friday and a library staff member will help you complete the census.
2: The Census is non-political and dedicated to confidentiality.
The 2020 Census just wants to know statistical information about you and your family. The information is sealed for 72 years. So, do not worry about someone getting your census data and using it for nefarious purposes.
The citizenship question that was proposed as a possible addition to the questions asked on the 2020 Census is not included in the questions you are asked, so do not be worried about that aspect either.
3: Census data is used to determine governmental funding.
The census is used as a data tool for government agencies to determine how much funding is needed in a geographical area. These can be needs based funding related to housing, education, and childcare.
In 2015 money was allocated by the United State Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for housing, community development and emergency shelter. The United States Department of Education (ED) allocated funds for special education, adult education, and rural education.
4: Census data is used to determine federal representation.
The number of seats each state is given in the House of Representatives is based upon the number of residents reported in the census. The data is also used to draw federal and state legislative districts, and to help legislators make crucial decisions. This count is only taken once every ten years, so be sure you and your family are included and represented!
Read to get started? Click here to take your Census, get answers t to frequently asked questions and #GetCounted.