2020 Census
Why It Matters
Everyone counts.
The census counts every person living in the U.S. once, only once, and in the right place every 10 years.
It’s in the Constitution.
The U.S. Constitution requires a census every 10 years. The census covers the entire country and everyone living here. The first census was in 1790.
It’s about fair representation.
Every 10 years, the results of the census are used to reapportion the House of Representatives, determining how many seats each state gets. State legislative districts are also redrawn, adapting to population shifts.
It means $675 billion.
Census data determine how more than $675 billion is spent, supporting your state, county, and community’s vital programs.
Taking part is your civic duty.
Completing the census is required: it’s a way to participate in our system of government and say “I COUNT!”