The “official” kick-off for the 2020 Census was April 1, but due to the current health crisis, the deadline to respond has been extended until October 31st. (Note that if you don’t respond by August 11th, census workers may visit you to conduct a Non-Response Follow-Up.) Just answer the questions based on who lived in your household as of April 1, 2020.
At this time, over 70 million households have self-responded to the 2020 Census. Households can self-respond either by internet (2020census.gov), phone (844-330-2020) or by mail. Printed questionnaires are being mailed to any households who have not responded by internet or phone.
You may keep track of self-response rates at https://2020census.gov/en/response-rates.html#. Santa Clara county has the highest response rate (58.6%) of all California counties!
Anne M. Karoly, Partnership Specialist, U.S. Census Bureau
Just because the deadline has been extended doesn’t mean you should put off responding! You already have your Census ID. Just 10 minutes out of your day will get the job done. You can complete the #2020Census online, by phone (844-330-2020), or by mail.
The Census and Seniors
Data from the Census impacts each state’s representation in Congress and the distribution of federal funding for programs related to schools, housing, health, and more.

This Bay Area volunteer is doing his 7th census. Here’s why he thinks you should fill out the 2020 questionnaire
Everybody’s worth some money in terms of the resource that we need to operate schools and businesses and practically everything.
Read the complete article »
These programs are especially important for LGBTQ communities and those with multiple intersecting identities that are underserved.
Census data also determines the allocation of funding for Medicare Part B, Supportive Housing for the Elderly Program, and Senior Community Service Employment Program.
Don’t worry: your privacy and personal information are protected through the Census process.