How Many People Live in the Country?

Welcoming a new decade also means the United States Census is back. Every ten years, the US government conducts a count of its population. This is a requirement outlined in the Constitution and has been a practice since the country’s inception. The census is crucial for gathering demographic data, determining community funding, assessing congressional representation, and other important factors influenced by population counts.

But how exactly does the Census work? It’s quite straightforward; you will receive a notification via mail, phone call, or email. Upon receiving the notice, you are required to respond. You can choose to reply through a mail-in form, an online digital form, or a telephone survey. While the Census Bureau does occasionally conduct surveys, participating in the official Census is mandatory even if you’ve recently completed a different survey. Rest assured, all information collected during the Census is completely confidential and is used solely for statistical purposes. The data is not used to identify individuals or families. It’s essential to note that a legitimate Census form will never ask for sensitive information like social security numbers or bank details. If you encounter a form requesting such information, it’s likely a scam.

Every individual residing in the United States is legally obligated to partake in the Census. Census notifications are typically distributed in March, but the timing may vary for specific territories such as Puerto Rico, remote states like Alaska, or regions recently affected by natural disasters. Certain circumstances like relocating to a different state or being incarcerated can complicate the process. If you have any uncertainties, you can always visit the Census Bureau’s website for further clarification.