 What is a census? As mandated by the U.S. Constitution, the census is a once every decade count of everyone living in the country. We know how many people live in your community. Organizations and businesses are better equipped to evaluate the services and programs needed, such as clinics, schools, and roads. It also determines how many seats in Congress are distributed in the March of 50 states. In March of 2020, the U.S. Census Bureau will send every household an invitation to complete a simple questionnaire about who lives at your address on April 1st. You'll have the opportunity to respond online, by phone, or by mail, and federal law keeps those responses safe and secure. Shape your future. Start here. Visit 2020census.gov.