Show All Answers

1. Why should I care about an undercount?

When people are not counted then it appears like they don’t live here. Then when we make plans for road improvements or to increase bus routes, areas with an undercount receive fewer services than they need for the actual population. Besides day-to-day services, during large natural disasters, population data from the Census Bureau is used to estimate evacuation and care needs. The data is also used to re-draw congressional boundaries, apportion seats in the federal House of Representatives, and re-distribute billions of tax dollars across the United States.  

2. Do I need a social security number?

No, you do not need a social security number or a state ID. You will be asked to give your name, birth date, and relationship to the head-of-household. The census is meant to count everyone—no matter your citizenship or resident status, everyone living in Oregon counts.  

3. What if we have 2 families living in one house?

That’s normal for our area and some people will have more than two families at one location. Some families will not want to share personal info with each other. Each family should select an adult to be the head-of-household and then together they should CALL THE CENSUS BUREAU OVER THE PHONE and explain that there are 2+ families that need to do the Census.

4. Who is the head-of-household?

The term ‘head-of-household’ has historically meant the oldest male in the home but traditional family configurations have changed. Your house will need to select an adult to be the head-of-household.

5. What if I live at a nursing home, group home, or I’m in a program?

If you live in a group setting, you will go through the GROUP ENUMERATION process.  Make sure to talk with the manager at your property to ensure they have scheduled a time with the Census Bureau to be counted in group enumeration. On average, 1 in 3 group settings do not participate in Group Enumeration and the people living on-site are not counted in the census.

6. What if I want to work with a translator or I know someone that needs a translator?

Many people requested translation services. Starting March 12, the Census bureau will provide live translation in 13 languages including SPANSIH, RUSSIAN, and SIMPLE CHINESE. The Cities of Fairview and Wood Village will provide telephone access to translation. Check the cities websites for more information.

7. I'm concerned about sharing personal information about my family.

The information provided to the Census BUREAU IS PRIVATE AND CONFIDENTIAL. The Federal Cybersecurity Enhancement Act of 2015 ensures that your information and data are protected from external cybersecurity risks. Your name, address, and telephone number will never be disclosed or published.  Federal Law TITLE 13 protects everyone’s information. The Census BUREAU cannot share it with HOMEFORWARD, the POLICE, or IMMIGRATION Enforcement. Any violation is punishable by 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Every person, including children, and long-term guests need to be included on your census form.