What is the Census?
The U.S. Constitution requires every ten (10) years a count of every living person in the United States. Learn more about the 2020 Census. https://2020census.gov/en
Why is the Census Important to Stanly County?
An accurate count of all Stanly County residents is important for many reasons. The count impacts the allocation of federal funding and how legislative districts are drawn, which can impact the total number of seats the State of North Carolina has in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Responses to the 2020 Census ensure Stanly County receives an equitable share of federal allocations to help build a safer and stronger community. Programs supported by federal funding include, but are not limited to the following:
- Free & reduced school lunch
- Affordable housing
- Food stamps and WIC
- Head Start
- Public health care services
- Public transportation services
- Roads & public transportation infrastructure
Additionally data from the 2020 Census will be used to:
- Ensure public services and school funding, hospitals and fire departments
- Plan new homes and businesses
When will I complete the Census?
Beginning in mid-March 2020 residents will receive a notice in the mail to complete the 2020 Census. Once you receive the mailing, you can complete the Census questionnaire online. In May 2020, if residents have not responded the U.S. Census Bureau will begin following-up by going to individual households to check the status of completion. A specific timeline is below:
| Dates | Notification Mailed |
| March 12-20 | Invitation to complete 2020 Census |
| March 16-24 | Reminder letter sent from U.S. Census Bureau |
| March 26- April 3 | Reminder postcards mailed |
| April 8-16 | 2nd reminder letter and & paper questionnaire |
| April 20-27 | Final reminder postcard before in-person follow-up |
How can I respond?
In 2020 individuals can complete the Census either online, by phone or via the US Mail. The Census questionnaire should take less than 5 minutes to complete.
What information will be requested?
Basic information about the people living in each household will be requested. When completing the Census one should include information about each individual living in the household effective April 1, 2020.
What information will not be requested?
The U.S. Census will NEVER ask for the following information:
- Social Security numbers
- Bank or credit card account numbers
- Money or donations
- Anything on behalf of a political party
Will my information be kept confidential?
Strict Federal laws protects your Census response. It is against the law for any Census employee to disclose or publish any Census information that identifies a specific individual. A $250,000 fine or imprisonment up to 5 years or both is the penalty for wrongful disclosure of Census information.
Where can I go to learn more?
You can learn more by visiting 2020census.gov
