2020 Census: Important, Easy and Safe
The United States is required to perform a national count of all people living in each state every ten years (U.S. Constitution, Article 1, Section 2). The 2020 census impacts Maryland in several important ways. The census:
- Determines representation in Congress and impacts local legislative districts;
- Is the basis for funding critical programs and services; and
- Assists local decision-making for economic development, school construction and transportation projects, as well as public health, public safety and emergency planning.
Every Marylander Counts!
Get Counted in the 2020 Decennial Census
The Census is Important Census data is used to determine the level of federal funding for programs such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program for Women, Infants and Children (SNAP/WIC), Medicaid, Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and highway and transportation projects.
- Every year, the federal government allocates more than $675 Billion in funding based on census data.
- Every Marylander not counted costs the state approximately $18,250 over 10 years – this equates to the state losing $26.6 Billion (based on historical U.S. Census undercount).
Completing your census form ensures Maryland families, neighbors and communities receive the support they need to live, work, play and grow.
The Census is Easy
Filling out your census form can be done in three ways – by mail, phone and online. The 2020 census will be the first online census in U.S. history. Answering the demographic questions in the census helps make sure your community receives its fair share of funding and that economic development and planning decisions accurately reflect your community on April 1, 2020. Some important facts to remember. Don’t forget:
- College students should be counted at their college address, either on or off campus. They should be counted at their parents’ home only if they live and sleep there.
- All children must be counted including those under five years old.
The Census is Safe
The U.S. Census Bureau must keep all information confidential, including a resident’s citizenship, income and other sensitive personal data.
- Data is collected for statistical purposes only and personal data is never disclosed.
- All census information is private and protected by law in Title 13 of the U.S. Code with violations punishable up to five years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine.
So choose the way that you will be counted – by mail, by phone or online.
It is the portrait of us that will last ten years, so let’s get everyone in the picture.
Twitter: @MDCensus2020
Phone: 410.767.4500
Download a flier with more information about the census here
Share this flier with information about the Census in Maryland
