Every ten years since 1790, the U.S. Census Bureau has counted the population within the borders of the United States and its five territories to help determine how many representatives each state receives in Congress as well as how much federal funding they receive. An accurate count could mean the difference between gaining or losing funding for schools, roads and other important programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Medicaid, health clinics, educational programs and more.
That's why L.A. County residents are being urged to complete the census forms sent to them over the last few weeks. In fact - it's required by law. But, for the first time ever, the U.S. Census Bureau is offering people the opportunity to respond and fill out their census online - an incredibly useful tool after officials announced changes in their field-operations amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. However, one thing to note - if you fill out the census online, you'll have to do it in one sitting as you won't have the ability to save your progress.
The 2020 Census asks people a few simple questions about you and everyone who is or will be living with you on April 1, 2020. Only one person (who is above the age of 15), should respond for each home. They should also live in the home or place of residence and know general information about everyone who lives there.
People can complete the census online, by phone (call (844) 330-2020) or by completing the questionnaire that was sent to them in the mail.
To learn more about the upcoming census, visit 2020census.gov.
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