Less than one week ago, the 2020 Census fully kicked off, and invitations continue to arrive in mailboxes across the nation. As of this morning, more than 11 million households have responded.
In support of guidance on what we can all do to help slow the spread of coronavirus, 2020 Census field operations will be suspended until April 1. The Census Bureau is taking this step to help protect the health and safety of the American public, Census Bureau employees and everyone going through the hiring process for temporary census taker positions.
During this pause in field operations, the Census Bureau will continue to evaluate all 2020 Census operations. Should any additional adjustments need to be made, the Census Bureau will communicate these changes broadly and promptly.
In late May, census takers around the nation will begin visiting households that have not yet responded to the 2020 Census to help complete the count. As we continue to monitor the evolving COVID-19 outbreak, we will adjust census taker and survey operations as necessary in order to follow the guidance of federal, state and local health authorities.
The public is strongly encouraged to respond to the 2020 Census online using a desktop computer, laptop, smartphone, or tablet, and can also respond by phone or mail. Everyone should respond to the 2020 Census as soon as they receive their invitation.
On March 15, the Census Bureau announced several adaptations to its group quarters operations to accommodate recent scheduling changes on college campuses as leadership takes action to keep students and faculty safe.
For all other Census Bureau household and economic surveys separate from the 2020 Decennial Census, Bureau personnel will begin using phone calls instead of in-person visits. In the limited number of instances where an in-person visit is necessary, we are working closely with public health authorities to ensure each visit is accomplished safely.
Respondents can also respond by calling the number provided in their invitation or by mail once they have received a paper form.
