The 2020 Census, or decennial census, recently took place. The decennial census, officially titled the Census of Population and Housing, orDecennial Census, is the most well-known operation of the Census Bureau and is used to count the number of persons living in the United States. These tabulations are used to determine how many representatives each state has in Congress.
In addition to the decennial census count, the Census Bureau also manages many surveys that provide valuable information for the country on a variety of subjects, including education, health care, crime, housing, employment, and government spending.
Your household or business may be selected to participate in one of these surveys. Your participation is critical. Your response to the 2020 Census cannot replace your answers to these other surveys.
TheAmerican Community Survey (ACS)is the largest survey conducted by the Census Bureau and has taken place every year since 2005. The questions in this survey were originally asked in the census long form sent to 1 out of every 6 households during the decennial census.
The Economic Census occurs every five years and collects extensive statistics of U.S. businesses and their economic impact. The Census Bureau conducts many other surveys that provide information about U.S. businesses and the economy, including the Services Annual Survey (SAS), Annual Retail Trade Survey (ARTS), and Annual Survey of Manufactures (ASM).
To find more information about other surveys we conduct, please visit the Census Bureau’s list of surveys or contact the Census Bureau Contact Center to speak with a representative who can assist you.
List of All Surveys and Programs
This page links you to information about our surveys, frequently asked questions, and the people to contact if you need help.
Contact Us
For general questions, call 1-800-923-8282 or visit ask.census.gov to message our Customer Service Center.
Verify a Census Bureau Survey, Mailing, or Contact
How to confirm the person visiting your address is a legitimate Census Bureau employee or whether the contact you received was from the Census Bureau.
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