2010 Census —
cooperate, but be cautious
It is important that we all cooperate with the Census Bureau. It collects
most census information by mail using a 10-question census form. However,
starting April 1, 2010, the Census Bureau will begin sending out field
agents to homes that have not returned a completed census form.
If someone visits you, make sure they are really from the Census Bureau.
Identity thieves may pose as agents and ask you for personal financial
information, which a genuine agent will not do.
Recognizing legitimate Census Bureau agents
Ask for identification and see that they have a:
- Badge
- Handheld device
- Confidentiality notice
In addition, some agents may carry a canvas U.S. Census Bureau bag.
Most important, agents will never, under any circumstances, ask to
enter your home.
Questions legitimate agents may ask
- Number of people at your address
- Names
- Ages
- Gender
- Race
- Other demographic information
Real agents will not ask you for:
- Social Security numbers
- Names of your financial institutions
- Credit union or bank account numbers
- Credit card numbers
- How much money you make
The Census Bureau can contact you:
- In person
- By mail
- By phone
However, they will not contact you via e-mail. Never respond to or
click on links in e-mails claiming to be from the Census Bureau.
No Census Bureau agent will ask you for donations.
If you are concerned about someone at your door, please call the Regional
Census Center
toll-free at 800/ 923-8282.
For more information
Go to the official Census
Bureau‡ site.