The 2010 Census: Vital to Your Future

In March 2010, more than 130 million addresses across the nation will receive a census questionnaire. One of the shortest census forms in history, the 2010 Census questionnaire asks 10 questions and takes about 10 minutes to complete. Completing your census questionnaire is easy, important and safe, and your participation is essential to ensuring a brighter tomorrow for our community.

Required once every 10 years by the U.S. Constitution, the census will count every person living in the United States, both citizens and noncitizens. Census data are used to reapportion the U.S. House of Representatives, re-district each state and determine the distribution of the Electoral College. Census data also directly affect how more than $400 billion per year in federal funding is distributed to state, local and tribal governments. Most importantly, census data is critical in determining locations for new hospitals, improving schools, building new roads, expanding public transportation options and creating new maps for emergency responders.

A division of the U.S. Department of Commerce, the US Census Bureau is responsible for collecting and providing relevant data about the people and economy of the United States. The first national census in the United States was conducted in 1790, and counted 3.9 million inhabitants. With the growth of the country, the needs for different kinds of information about the people changed. In 1850, the census included inquiries on social issues, such as taxation, churches, pauperism, and crime. As new states and territories were added to the Union, the censuses also spread geographically.

A host of surveys are conducted by the census bureau, collecting information on subjects such as population; housing; retail merchandise; personal, business and transport services; international trade; local, state and federal government agencies; education; transportation.

Only general statistical information is to be collected by the census, and it is illegal to release any specific information about individuals.

By participating in the census, you can help create a better future for you and those important to you. Complete and return your form when it arrives.

To see an example of the census form, click here (English/Spanish).

To learn more, visit www.2010census.gov.

What to do if you did not receive a Census 2010 form.