
About the Census
Every 10 years, the United States conducts a census of the entire population.
The census is used to determine Congressional representation and allocate billions of dollars in federal funding which supports schools, hospitals, infrastructure developments and other community-based services.
Local government, foundations, businesses, educators and others, rely on census information to make important decisions about local policies, funding distribution, where to start businesses and more. The participation of every resident in the census will help make sure that our region receives the federal funds that it needs to serve everyone equitably. It’s why our goal is to make sure 100% of our residents are counted.
Completing the Census Questionnaire
There are 3 ways to complete the 2020 census:
Online
The questionnaire can be completed by using your computer, tablet or mobile device.
By Phone
You can call the U.S. Census Bureau and participate over the phone.
If households do not fill out the census online or by phone, the Census Bureau will send you a paper questionnaire to complete
You can view an example of the questionnaire on the Census Bureau’s website here.
Have more questions about the 2020 census? Visit our FAQ page to learn more.
Timeline
The Census Bureau will begin encouraging households to participate in the census as early as March 2020. When it’s time to respond, most households will receive an invitation in the mail. Every household will have the option of responding online, by mail, or by phone.
Here’s what you can expect to receive from the U.S. Census Bureau:
On or between | You’ll receive: |
March 12 – 20 | An invitation to respond online to the 2020 Census.
(Some households will also receive paper questionnaires.) |
March 16-24 | A reminder letter. |
If you haven’t responded yet: | |
March 26 – April 3 | A reminder postcard. |
April 8-16 | A reminder letter and paper questionnaire. |
April 20 – 27 | A final reminder postcard before we follow up in person. |
Learn Why the Census Matters from Local Community Members
Be Counted 2020
Allegheny County and the City of Pittsburgh are working together to ensure that residents living in all 130 municipalities are counted.
© 2019 Allegheny County + City of Pittsburgh
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