The 2020 Census is happening now! Earlier this year, we wrote about why taking the census is essential to protecting the environment. Here’s what you need to know to respond to the census survey online, by phone, or by mail.
The Census is basically just a survey. The survey will ask a few simple questions about you and everyone who is or will be living with you on April 1, 2020. You can see the questions before you take it, online at 2020census.gov.
Keep in mind that you have until August 14, 2020, to complete the survey, but don’t delay! The Census encourages you to respond by April 1st, 2020.
Take the Census Online
People are highly encouraged to take the Census online. You will take it online at my2020census.gov.
You need your 12 digit census ID to get started. Please keep an eye out for mail from a census worker with your invitation. It will include your census ID. If you need more guidance on where to find it on your invitation, visit 2020census.gov
Even if you did not receive an invitation, you can still take the Census. Visit my2020census.gov and click the link that says “If you do not have a Census ID, click here.”
Follow the instructions you see online to answer the questions and submit your survey.
Take the Census by Mail
This one is easy! Simply keep an eye out for mail from a census worker with your invitation. Complete the questionnaire that is included. Then, mail it back in the envelope provided. Since the envelope is postage-paid, you don’t even need to add a stamp. Just drop it in the mail!
Take the Census by Phone
If going online or sending it by mail doesn’t work for you, you can also take the census by phone. To get started, call 844-330-2020. Phone lines are open every day from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.
The 2020 Census can be completed by phone in the following languages:
- English: 844-330-2020
- Spanish: 844-468-2020
- Chinese (Mandarin): 844-391-2020
- Chinese (Cantonese): 844-398-2020
- Vietnamese: 844-461-2020
- Korean: 844-392-2020
- Russian: 844-417-2020
- Arabic: 844-416-2020
- Tagalog: 844-478-2020
- Polish: 844-479-2020
- French: 844-494-2020
- Haitian Creole: 844-477-2020
- Portuguese: 844-474-2020
- Japanese: 844-460-2020
- English (for Puerto Rico residents): 844-418-2020
- Spanish (for Puerto Rico residents): 844-426-2020
- TDD (Telephone Display Device): 844-467-2020
If you have trouble…
It’s okay if you get stuck or need additional help to complete your census survey. If you have any questions or need assistance, please call toll-free at 1(844)-330-2020.