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United States Census 2020: Census FAQ

How does the census count renters?

How does the census count people who live in on-campus residence halls?

How do I avoid census-related fraud and scams?

Avoiding Scams Online
Phishing is a criminal act in which someone tries to get your information by pretending to be an entity you trust. Phishing emails often direct you to a website that looks real but is fake and may be infected with malware.

Please note that the Census Bureau will never send unsolicited emails to request your participation in the 2020 Census. Further, the Census Bureau will never ask for the following information during the 2020 Census:

  • Your Social Security Number
  • Financial information, such as your bank account or credit card numbers
  • Money or donations

Additionally, the Census Bureau will not contact you on behalf of a political party.

Reporting Suspected Fraud
If you suspect fraud, call the U.S. Census Bureau California Regional Office at 213-314-6500 or toll–free at 800-923-8282 to speak with a local Census Bureau representative. If it is determined that the visitor who came to your door does not work for the Census Bureau, contact your local police department.

[Source: CA Census. (2020). Census 101. https://census.ca.gov/census-101/]

How do I take the census?

Every person in the country is required to fill out the 2020 Census form. Luckily, you have three ways to respond.

Online:

  • For the first time, the Census form will be available to complete online in 13 languages.

By Phone:

  • The Census can be completed by phone in 13 languages including Telecommunication Device for the Deaf.

By Mail:

  • The paper Census form will be available in English and Spanish languages and can be mailed back to the U.S. Census Bureau. Please note, you cannot request a paper form. Those Californians who have not responded during the self-response period and those with low broadband will receive a paper form in the mail.

Video and printed guides will also be available in 59 non-English languages, and there will be a video in American Sign Language, plus a printed guide in braille.

Whichever you use, just make sure you fill out the form!

[Source: CA Census. (2020). Census 101. https://census.ca.gov/census-101/]

How is census data used?

How does the census affect representation?