Census 2020

Complete the census today

The census is a survey conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau every 10 years. The count is mandated by the Constitution and conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau, a nonpartisan government agency. The 2020 Census counts the population in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and five U.S. territories (Puerto Rico, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands). Each home will receive an invitation to respond to a short questionnaire—online, by phone, or by mail.

Get Counted in Illinois

2020 Census Timeline

• March 12-20        Households will be mailed an invitation to respond online to the 2020 Census
• March 16-24        Households will be sent a reminder letter
• March 26-April 3  Households will be sent a reminder postcard
• April 8-April 16    Households will be sent a reminder letter with a paper version of the census questionnaire if they have not yet responded
• April 20-27          Households will be sent a reminder postcard if they have not yet responded
• May-July             If you do not respond, Census representatives will attempt to follow up with you in person

What is the census, exactly, and why should you participate? Click on the links below to learn more.

Why Does it Matter?

Frequently Asked Questions

Videos: Learn More

The 2020 Census & Confidentiality