2020 Census

What is the Census?                                                        

The count is mandated by the Constitution and conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau, a nonpartisan government agency. The 2020 Census counts the population in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and five U.S. undefined Opens in new windowterritories. In mid-March, each home will receive an invitation to respond to a short questionnaire—online, by phone, or by mail. 

Why should I do the Census?

  • Funding: The Village of Homer Glen relies heavily on revenue that is distributed by the State of Illinois. The state motor fuel tax and income tax revenues are distributed on a per capita basis. If Homer Glen has more people, the more money the Village will receive for parks, roads and services. 
  • Representation: The results are used to adjust or redraw electoral districts. Completing the Census may help Illinois keep electoral votes or Congressmen! 
  • Data: Census data is used by policy makers, businesses and researchers to guide decisions. 
  • In 2010, Homer Glen had one of the highest participation rates in the Chicagoland area. 

When is the Census?

  • Mid-March: Households will begin receiving official Census Bureau mail with detailed information on how to respond to the 2020 Census online, by phone, or by mail.
  • April 1, 2020: National Census Day! When you respond to the census, you’ll tell the Census Bureau where you live as of April 1, 2020. You can respond online, by phone, or by mail.
  • April 2020: Census takers will begin visiting college students who live on campus, people living in senior centers, and others who live among large groups of people. Census takers also begin conducting quality check interviews to help ensure an accurate count.
  • May - July 2020: Census takers will begin visiting homes that haven’t responded to the 2020 Census to help make sure everyone is counted. Make sure to respond early to avoid visitors!

What will the Census ask?

The Census Questionnaire is easy to complete and only asks for basic information, including household member’s names, age and race. Click the sample questionnaire on the Census sample Opens in new windowright to view a sample questionnaire. 

Will my answers be safe? 

Yes, by law, Census responses can’t be shared with other Federal departments, landlords or local authorities. Every Census worker takes an oath to protect personal information. The Census only shares aggregated data. The Census has made technology security a priority and has an advanced protection system.  

How do I know this piece of mail or Census worker is official?

When you receive a piece of mail, keep in mind that the Census Bureau will NEVER ask for:

  • Your Social Security number.
  • Money or donations.
  • Anything on behalf of a political party.                                                                      
  • Your bank or credit card account numbers.

If someone claiming to be from the Census Bureau contacts you via email or phone and asks you for one of these things, it’s a scam, and you should not cooperate. If someone visits your home, you can check that they have a valid ID badge, with a photo and U.S. Department of Commerce watermark. If you suspect fraud, you can call (800) 923-8282 and speak with a local Census Bureau representative. For more information, visit the Avoiding Fraud and Scams page on the Census website.