About the Census
The United States Constitution requires a Census population count every 10 years. The first U.S. Census was conducted in 1790. Since then, there has been a Census every 10 years to track population changes. This consistent source of reliable data allows policy makers, researchers, businesses, and non-profits to better represent their constituencies and serve their communities.
Why the Census is Important
Our constitution mandates a Census count of all persons residing in the United States every ten years, the next count will take place in 2010. This count is extremely important to our state as this population data is used to reapportion Congress (re-districting). Based on recent projections, our state is teetering on the edge of losing a seat in the U.S. House.
In addition, approximately $400 billion in federal dollars are distributed to the states annually based on the results of the Census. Over a decade, this means our state loses $13,000 per person missed in the 2010 Census. In response, Minnesota uses this same count to determine how state money is distributed to local governments.
What the Census Will Ask
In March of 2010, census forms will be delivered to every resident in Minnesota. When you receive your form, answer the 10 short questions for every person in your household and mail the form back in the provided postage-paid envelope. If you don't mail the form back, you may receive a visit from a census taker, who will ask you the questions from the form.
The majority of homes will receive English only materials. Households in areas with high concentrations of Spanish speaking residents may receive a bilingual form.
The Census is composed of 10 short questions that should only take 10 minutes to answer.
- Name
- Sex
- Age
- Date of birth
- Hispanic origin
- Race
- Household relationship
- If you own or rent
Preview the 2010 Census Form
Preview the Individual 2010 Census Form for Group Quarters and College Students
Preview the 2010 Census Form for Members of the Military Overseas
Security Information
Census workers can be identified by the official Census Bureau badge they carry. All census information collected, including addresses, are confidential and protected by law. By law, the Census Bureau cannot share respondents' answers with the FBI, the IRS, CIA, Welfare, Immigration, or any other government agency. No court of law or law enforcement agency can find out respondents' answers. All Census Bureau employees - including temporary employees - take an oath for life to keep census information confidential. Any violation of that oath is punishable by a fine of up to $250,000 and five years in prison. 2010 Census workers will never ask for bank or social security information nor will they request money.
About the State Demographic Center
The Minnesota State Demographic Center is the state agency charged with assisting statewide and local community efforts in achieving a complete Census count in our state. Although the U.S. Census Bureau will be conducting the Census, we will be working with them closely to ensure that all populations are counted and that we are addressing any concerns that may arise in Minnesota.
We have a staff of three ready to provide you assistance with answering questions, talking to the press, addressing concerns, or anything else that may be Census 2010 related.
