February — March 2010
Census questionnaires are mailed or delivered to households.
March — April 2010
Be Counted program is implemented. Questionnaires are available at select public sites for individuals who did not receive one by mail.
April 1, 2010
Census Day
May — July 2010
Census takers visit households that did not return a questionnaire by mail.
Dec. 31, 2010
By law, the Census Bureau delivers population counts to the president.
March 2011
By law, the Census Bureau completes delivery of redistricting data to states.
Frequently asked questions:
Q. Who should fill out the census questionnaire?
The individual in whose name the housing unit is owned or rented should complete the questionnaire on behalf of every person living in the residence, including relatives and non-relatives.
Q. How will the 2010 Census differ from previous censuses?
In 2010, every residence will receive a short questionnaire of just 10 questions. More detailed socioeconomic information previously collected through the decennial census will be asked of a small percentage of the population through the annual American Community Survey.
Q. How are census data used?
Census data determine the number of seats each state will have in the U.S. House of Representatives. Census data also can help determine the allocation of federal funds for community services, such as school lunch programs and senior citizen centers, and new construction, such as highways and hospitals.
Q. What kind of assistance is available to help people complete the questionnaire?
2010 Census questionnaire language assistance guides are available in a variety of languages. Questionnaire Assistance Centers (QAC) will also assist those unable to read or understand the questionnaire. Large-print questionnaires are available upon request, and a Teletext Device for the Deaf (TDD) program will help the hearing impaired.
Q. How does the Census Bureau count people without a permanent residence?
Census Bureau workers undertake extensive operations to take in-person counts of people living in group quarters, such as college dormitories, military barracks, nursing homes and shelters, as well as those who have been displaced by natural disasters.
Q. How do I contact the Census Bureau?
Click here for a list of Census Bureau regional offices, and you can call the bureau at 1-800-923-8282 (Monday to Thursday: 8:30 – 5:30 ET Friday: 8:30-4:30 ET).