Letters from the U.S. Census Bureau are arriving in mailboxes across the country.
While many communities are practicing social distancing or are under shelter-in-place mandates, the Bureau says participation in this year’s Census is still easily doable. Individuals may answer questions online, over the phone, or by mail—all without having to meet in-person with a census taker.
With invitations to participate in the 2020 Census going out during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, the Census Bureau is encouraging everyone to respond online as soon as invitations are received. The instructions will include the web address for the online questionnaire in English, as well as in 12 additional languages.
All households that have not responded online or by phone will receive a paper questionnaire between April 8 and April 16.
Telephone assistance is available seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. Eastern time for those who prefer to respond by phone.
The Census Bureau will closely follow guidance from public health authorities when conducting all field operations as well.
“We will continue to monitor the situation and take appropriate steps in consultation with public health authorities,” the Census Bureau said.
