The census is a constitutionally mandated count of everyone living in the United States, regardless of their citizenship status. Conducted every ten years, the census is one of the nation’s most important programs. New Yorker’s fair share of federal funds for programs, as well as our congressional representation in Washington, D.C. all depends on an accurate and fully counted census response. Billions of dollars for New York State are at stake.
There are three ways to respond to the 2020 Census:
- online- visit https://my2020census.gov
- phone- (844) 330-2020
- by mail- mail in the form you should have received in March or April from the Census Bureau.
The census consists of just 10 basic questions: name, number of people living or staying the the home on April 1, 2020; whether the residence is a house, apartment, or mobile home; telephone number; sex; age; date of birth; Hispanic origin; race; and relationship with other household members.
The U.S. Census Bureau is bound by law to protect your answers and keep them strictly confidential. The information you provide is used only to produce statistics.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic the timeline to complete the census has been extended to October 31, 2020.
Starting August 11, the Census 2020 will begin a new phase – the follow-up interviews with non-respondents. A strong response before this date best positions New York for a complete final count.
New York State’s response rate to date has been 57.3%. It’s a little better for Oswego County and Parish, but we’re a long way from a complete response. If you haven’t responded yet, it’s not too late to help us get there!